2 fatalities

Aircraft crash in Alygdzher due to pilot intoxication

Alygdzher, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On July 17, 1942, a Polikarpov Po-2 operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Alygdzher, Russia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot decided to operate the aircraft while intoxicated. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into wooded terrain near Alygdzher after takeoff, killing two occupants and injuring one. The official investigation attributed the accident to the pilot's decision to fly while intoxicated.

What happened

The incident occurred following a routine flight from Nizhneudinsk to Alygdzher. After landing, the pilot remained on the ground for an extended period with friends and consumed alcohol. While preparing for the return journey, individuals present advised the pilot to delay the departure until the next day due to his condition. However, the pilot insisted on completing the flight that same day.

Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft performed several maneuvers before climbing to an altitude of 1,600 metres. Despite good weather conditions, the plane struck trees and crashed into a wooded, hilly area. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames. As a result of the accident, two occupants were killed and one passenger sustained injuries.

Findings

The official investigation concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the pilot's judgment. Specifically, the decision to initiate the flight while in an intoxicated state was identified as the cause.

Probable cause

The pilot decided to operate the aircraft while intoxicated.