Polikarpov Po-2 accident at Uralsk, Kazakhstan, 14 May 1938 (CCCP-T210)
On May 14, 1938, a Polikarpov Po-2 (registration CCCP-T210) operated by Osoaviakhima was involved in an aviation accident near Uralsk, Kazakhstan in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It was determined that the loss of control was the consequence of an aircraft that was not airworthy. After being partially dismantled four months ago, the control column was not properly fixed and the crew decided to make a local training flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Probable cause
It was determined that the loss of control was the consequence of an aircraft that was not airworthy. After being partially dismantled four months ago, the control column was not properly fixed and the crew decided to make a local training flight. The CofA was not valid anymore since it expired last April 1st. The loss of control occurred at an altitude where the crew was unable to expect recovery.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
The crew departed Uralsk for a local training flight. After completing two slight turns at a height of about 250 metres, the pilot-in-command lost control of the airplane that entered a dive and crashed near the airfield. Both occupants were killed.
Probable cause (official findings): It was determined that the loss of control was the consequence of an aircraft that was not airworthy. After being partially dismantled four months ago, the control column was not properly fixed and the crew decided to make a local training flight. The CofA was not valid anymore since it expired last April 1st. The loss of control occurred at an altitude where the crew was unable to expect recovery.