What happened
The incident involved a flight departing from Ashgabat Airport for the purpose of gathering meteorological information. During the operation, the pilot encountered adverse weather conditions characterized by clouds and atmospheric turbulence. While navigating through this poor visibility environment, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The plane subsequently impacted the slope of Mt Gora Markou, a peak with an elevation of 1,530 metres situated approximately 25 km west of the city.
Because the aircraft did not return to base as expected, search and rescue operations were launched. The wreckage was located one week later on April 25. Debris was found between 20 and 30 metres below the mountain's summit. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and one fatality, which was the pilot.
Findings
Official investigations were unable to determine the exact cause of the accident with absolute certainty. However, authorities concluded that the loss of control likely occurred after the pilot encountered severe weather conditions involving dense clouds and significant atmospheric turbulence.