Agricultural aircraft crash in Russia results in two fatalities

2 fatalities • Apollonovka, Ukraine • Flight

An agricultural spraying aircraft crashed into a residential building after striking trees and power lines, killing both crew members.

What happened

During an aerial spraying operation conducted for the Zarya State Farm, an aircraft experienced a sudden loss of altitude while performing a maneuver. The flight was being executed at a low altitude, approximately 18 to 20 meters above the ground, maintaining a velocity of 160 km/h. As the aircraft initiated a right-hand turn, it descended into the treetops and collided with overhead power cables.

Following this impact, the plane struck a house. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both members of the flight crew perished in the crash. There were no reported injuries to individuals on the ground at the time of the incident.

Findings

Official investigations into the wreckage could not establish a definitive cause for the accident. However, investigators noted that a momentary engine malfunction, attributed to substandard fuel quality, may have distracted the crew from their flight operations, leading to the loss of control during the turn.

Probable cause

A temporary engine issue caused by poor fuel quality likely distracted the crew, resulting in a loss of altitude and control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1987-10-24 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Apollonovka, Ukraine?

An agricultural spraying aircraft crashed into a residential building after striking trees and power lines, killing both crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 1987-10-24 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1987-10-24 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-35330, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Apollonovka, Ukraine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A temporary engine issue caused by poor fuel quality likely distracted the crew, resulting in a loss of altitude and control.

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