No fatalities

In-flight smoke emergency leads to aircraft crash (CCCP-40717)

Orel, RussiaFlight

On December 7, 1978, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-40717) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Orel, Russia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper crew responses during an emergency landing procedure following a cabin smoke event. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An unidentified aircraft crashed during an emergency descent following the detection of smoke within the cabin.

What happened

During the flight, a significant amount of smoke began to permeate the passenger cabin. This development necessitated an immediate response from the crew, who initiated procedures for an emergency landing to address the potential fire hazard.

While attempting to bring the aircraft down safely, the sequence of events culminated in a crash. At this time, the specific status of those on board remains unconfirmed, as the fate of all occupants is unknown.

Findings

Investigations into the accident indicate that the primary driver of the crash was incorrect actions taken by the crew during the emergency situation. While the smoke in the cabin served as the initial trigger for the descent, the subsequent maneuvers performed by the flight crew contributed directly to the impact.

Probable cause

Improper crew responses during an emergency landing procedure following a cabin smoke event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Dec 1978 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Orel, Russia?

An unidentified aircraft crashed during an emergency descent following the detection of smoke within the cabin.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Dec 1978 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Dec 1978 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-40717, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Orel, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Improper crew responses during an emergency landing procedure following a cabin smoke event.