What happened
Shortly after departing from Norilsk-Valek Airport, the flight encountered deteriorating weather characterized by low cloud cover and significantly reduced visibility. During the initial phase of the flight, the pilot attempted to execute a turn while operating within these clouds. During this maneuver, the aircraft collided with a rocky incline on Mt Kulgakhtakh, situated approximately 40 km southeast of the departure airfield.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. While there were no fatalities, all 18 occupants sustained injuries during the accident.
Findings
Investigations into the crash identified that the crew attempted to maintain flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite encountering Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) where visibility had dropped below required minimums. Additionally, it was noted that air traffic control provided takeoff clearance without having accurate information regarding the actual weather conditions present along the flight path.