2 fatalities

Aircraft Strikes Mt Kysyrdag After Continuing into Low Visibility (CCCP-02518)

Bazarchay, ArmeniaFlight

On July 1, 1976, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-02518) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Bazarchay, Armenia in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the crew to continue the flight into limited visibility due to clouds in violation with the published procedures. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

While cruising at 2,700 meters, a flight from Sisian Airport encountered worsening weather and low visibility due to clouds. The pilot continued, and the aircraft struck Mt Kysyrdag. Both occupants were killed and the aircraft destroyed by post-crash fire.

Accident Details

The flight departed Sisian Airport at 1800 local time, heading east. The aircraft climbed to a cruising altitude of 2,700 meters. As the flight progressed, weather conditions deteriorated and visibility decreased significantly due to cloud cover.

Despite the deteriorating conditions, the pilot-in-command did not turn back and instead elected to continue the flight. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft collided with Mt Kysyrdag, which rises to 2,987 meters. The impact occurred at an elevation of approximately 2,750 meters.

Aftermath

The aircraft was consumed by a post-crash fire. Both individuals on board sustained fatal injuries. The wreckage was later located at the impact site on the mountain.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the crew's failure to discontinue the flight into limited visibility caused by clouds, in violation of published procedures.