Mountain Crash Near Selikhino: Aircraft Lost After Weather Deterioration (CCCP-07313)

Incident Overview and Flight Details The aircraft departed Mariinskoye Airport with Khabarovsk as its intended destination. While cruising at an altitude of 1,350 meters, the crew encountered deteriorating weather conditions. In response, the crew reduced the aircraft's altitude to 750 meters and altered the planned route to head toward Troitskoye. ## Crash and Search Operations During the flight, the aircraft was operating in clouds when it struck the slope of a mountain situated 22 kilometers southeast of Selikhino. Because the aircraft did not arrive at its destination, search and rescue operations were launched. The wreckage, which was found in a burnt condition, was located the following day at an altitude of 630 meters. ## Casualties The accident resulted in the deaths of 10 occupants. A 13-year-old boy was also injured in the crash. ## Official Findings The official investigation identified the probable cause as the crew's decision to continue flying in adverse weather conditions, specifically low clouds and rain, below the minimum safe altitude prescribed for the area. The investigation also noted that the lack of air traffic control assistance was a contributing factor.