No fatalities

Engine Failure Leads to Crash of Antonov An-2 near Lovozero (RA-07748)

Lovozero, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On June 4, 2002, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration RA-07748) operated by Sibaviatrans was involved in an aviation accident near Lovozero, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure due to poor maintenance. Deficiencies were reported during investigations regarding the operator's maintenance procedures. The documentation related to aircraft maintenance was incomplete. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An Antonov An-2 suffered an engine failure shortly after takeoff from Lovozero Airstrip, struck a tree, and crashed. All 12 occupants escaped uninjured. Investigation attributed the accident to poor maintenance practices.

Accident Details

Shortly after lifting off from Lovozero Airstrip, the aircraft reached a height of 15 to 20 meters when the engine lost power. White smoke was observed emanating from the bottom of the engine. The aircraft began to descend, struck an 8-meter-tall tree located 191 meters past the end of the runway, and then crashed into a wooded area an additional 58 meters beyond. All 12 occupants evacuated without injury, though the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be engine failure resulting from poor maintenance. Deficiencies were noted in the operator's maintenance procedures, and the documentation related to aircraft maintenance was incomplete. Additionally, several mechanics and engineers responsible for work on the AN-2 fleet were found to lack required qualifications and authorization.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jun 2002 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Lovozero, Russia?

An Antonov An-2 suffered an engine failure shortly after takeoff from Lovozero Airstrip, struck a tree, and crashed. All 12 occupants escaped uninjured. Investigation attributed the accident to poor maintenance practices.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Jun 2002 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jun 2002 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration RA-07748, operated by Sibaviatrans, at Lovozero, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure due to poor maintenance. Deficiencies were reported during investigations regarding the operator's maintenance procedures. The documentation related to aircraft maintenance was incomplete. Also, several mechanics and engineers working on the AN-2 fleet were not qualified and authorised to do so.