No fatalities

Engine Failure Causes Crash Landing in Wooded Area Near Olyokminsk; Occupants Unharmed (CCCP-35198)

Olyokminsk, RussiaFlight

On May 21, 1981, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-35198) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Olyokminsk, Russia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The engine failure was the consequence of the disintegration of the 4th cylinder intake valve. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine airplane suffered engine vibration during cruise, attempted an emergency landing, and crashed into trees northwest of Olyokminsk. The aircraft was destroyed by fire, but all nine occupants escaped uninjured.

Accident Overview

On the second leg of a flight from Vitim to Olyokminsk, a single-engine airplane departed Lensk Airport at 0909 local time. About an hour into the flight, while cruising at an altitude of 1,500 meters, the engine began to vibrate. The flight crew decided to attempt an emergency landing.

Event Details

The airplane descended into a wooded area located 122 kilometers northwest of Olyokminsk. Upon impact with trees, the aircraft crashed and burst into flames. The fire subsequently destroyed the airplane.

Occupants and Damage

All nine occupants on board escaped the accident without injury. However, the aircraft was completely destroyed by the post-crash fire.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the engine failure was the consequence of the disintegration of the 4th cylinder intake valve.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 May 1981 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Olyokminsk, Russia?

A single-engine airplane suffered engine vibration during cruise, attempted an emergency landing, and crashed into trees northwest of Olyokminsk. The aircraft was destroyed by fire, but all nine occupants escaped uninjured.

Were there any fatalities in the 21 May 1981 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 May 1981 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-35198, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Olyokminsk, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failure was the consequence of the disintegration of the 4th cylinder intake valve.