Flight Details
The single-engine airplane departed Khasavyurt Airport at 0958 LT on flight SU116, bound for Makhachkala with an intermediate stop in Botlikh. Approximately 10 minutes after departure, while flying at an altitude of 1,300 to 1,500 meters, the aircraft encountered clouds.
Events Leading to Impact
Despite limited visibility, the crew decided to continue the flight and increased altitude. They were able to distinguish the Ashu River, an affluent of the Sulak River. However, a few minutes later, while cruising at 2,400 meters and a speed of 160 to 170 km/h, the airplane struck the slope of Mount Salatau, which has an elevation of 2,713 meters. The mountain is located 43 kilometers southeast of Khasavyurt.
Casualties and Damage
Six passengers sustained injuries, while eight other occupants were killed. The aircraft was destroyed on impact.
Probable Cause
Official findings determined the probable cause as controlled flight into terrain. The crew decided to continue under visual flight rules (VFR) mode in clouds and failed to return to Khasavyurt Airport.