Aircraft accident at Bugulma involving 17 passengers

2 fatalities • Bugulma, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb from Bugulma after departing with more passengers than the permitted limit, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

A scheduled departure from Bugulma, originally set for 0805LT, was delayed until 0900LT because of unfavorable weather conditions along the flight path. Just before takeoff at approximately 0950LT, three extra people boarded the aircraft, bringing the total passenger count to 15, which exceeded the maximum capacity of 12.

One minute after the aircraft type departed the runway, while climbing at an altitude of roughly 15 meters, the airspeed dropped to 60 km/h. This loss of speed caused the plane to veer left and enter a stall, leading to a crash. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as one passenger died at the scene and another succumbed to injuries five days later on November 16. Additionally, there were 15 injuries among the occupants. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were reported as normal, and both the weight and center of gravity were within operational limits.

Findings

Investigations concluded that the loss of control during the climb was triggered by pilot distraction. During this period, the pilot utilized an incorrect takeoff configuration and did not perform the necessary maneuvers to ensure a sufficient airspeed and a steady rate of climb.

Probable cause

The pilot became distracted and failed to maintain proper speed and takeoff configuration, leading to a stall during the initial climb.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1979-11-11 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Bugulma, Russia?

An aircraft crashed during its initial climb from Bugulma after departing with more passengers than the permitted limit, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1979-11-11 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 1979-11-11 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-70219, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Bugulma, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot became distracted and failed to maintain proper speed and takeoff configuration, leading to a stall during the initial climb.

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