Engine failure leads to fatal crash near Tiksi

5 fatalities • Tiksi, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into Tiksi Bay during a night approach under poor weather conditions, resulting in five fatalities.

What happened

During a nighttime approach to Tiksi under adverse weather conditions, an aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power while flying at an altitude of 300 meters and a speed of 150 km/h. The loss of engine power led to an aerodynamic stall, causing the plane to descend into the waters of Tiksi Bay, approximately 2.5 km from the start of the runway. Of the six people on board, five fatalities were recorded, while one passenger was successfully rescued from the wreckage.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the engine failure was triggered by mechanical malfunctions involving the cylinders, pistons, and exhaust valves. Additionally, investigators determined that carburetor icing occurred during the final approach, which caused a drop in cylinder head temperature and a subsequent loss of engine power, significantly degrading the aircraft's performance.

Probable cause

The engine lost power due to mechanical failure of internal components and carburetor icing during the approach.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-09-26 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Tiksi, Russia?

An aircraft crashed into Tiksi Bay during a night approach under poor weather conditions, resulting in five fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-09-26 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-09-26 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-44984, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Tiksi, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine lost power due to mechanical failure of internal components and carburetor icing during the approach.

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