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Single-Engine Airplane Strikes Treetops After Departure, All Occupants Uninjured (CCCP-35584)

Irakinda, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On April 26, 1980, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-35584) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Irakinda, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crew to release the flaps prior to takeoff that was completed at a too low speed. A lack of crew training in such operations was considered as a contributing factor. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane struck treetops shortly after takeoff from a mountainous airfield, leading to an emergency landing. The aircraft was destroyed, but all 12 occupants escaped without injury.

Accident Summary

A single-engine airplane departed from an airfield located in a mountainous area. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft failed to reach the required climb speed. At a distance of approximately 1,050 meters from the aerodrome and at a height of 15 to 20 meters, the airplane struck tree tops.

Emergency Landing

Following the impact, the captain shut down the engine and executed an emergency landing in a wooded area. The aircraft came to rest within the trees.

Damage and Injuries

The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair. All 12 occupants on board escaped uninjured.

Probable Cause

According to official findings, the accident was caused by the crew's failure to release the flaps prior to takeoff, which was performed at too low a speed. A contributing factor was a lack of crew training in such operations.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Apr 1980 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Irakinda, Russia?

A single-engine airplane struck treetops shortly after takeoff from a mountainous airfield, leading to an emergency landing. The aircraft was destroyed, but all 12 occupants escaped without injury.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Apr 1980 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Apr 1980 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-35584, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Irakinda, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Failure of the crew to release the flaps prior to takeoff that was completed at a too low speed. A lack of crew training in such operations was considered as a contributing factor.

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