Mid-air collision involving two AN-2 aircraft over Russia

5 fatalities • Natalin Yar, Russia • Flight

Two PZL-Mielec AN-2 aircraft collided in mid-air while flying through adverse weather, resulting in the loss of both aircraft and all ten people on board.

What happened

A transport mission involving seven PZL-Mielec AN-2 aircraft was underway to move personnel and mechanics from Urgench, Uzbekistan, to Myashkovo. The flight plan included scheduled stops in Uralsk and Penza.

During the segment of the flight between Uralsk and Penza, two specific aircraft, CCCP-28938 and CCCP-32112, encountered a region characterized by clouds and light precipitation. While cruising at an altitude of approximately 500 meters, the two planes collided in mid-air. Following the impact, both aircraft entered a steep dive and crashed into the ground 350 meters away from the initial collision point. The wreckage was found roughly 25 meters apart, and both airframes were consumed by fire.

There were 10 fatalities in total, as every crew member and passenger on both aircraft perished in the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the accident determined that the crews were operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite the presence of poor visibility. The primary contributing factor was inadequate flight planning and preparation, specifically a failure by the mission leadership and flight crews to properly assess the meteorological conditions along the intended route.

Probable cause

The collision was caused by flying under visual flight rules in adverse weather due to a failure to analyze upcoming weather conditions during flight planning.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-03-25 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Natalin Yar, Russia?

Two PZL-Mielec AN-2 aircraft collided in mid-air while flying through adverse weather, resulting in the loss of both aircraft and all ten people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-03-25 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-03-25 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-28938, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Natalin Yar, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?