On November 29, 1971, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-32207) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Aloja, Latvia during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the captain to follow the minimum approach altitude. 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.
After an unauthorized night flight following a crop-spraying mission in Aloja, the pilot-in-command lost control, causing the aircraft to nose down and crash 3 km north of the airstrip. The copilot was killed, two others injured, and the aircraft destroyed.
Accident Details
A crop-spraying aircraft operating in the region of Aloja completed its mission but the crew decided after sunset to continue flying in the area without permission. While returning to the airstrip, the pilot-in-command lost control of the airplane. The aircraft nosed down by an estimated 10–15° before crashing into a field located 3 km north of the airstrip.
The wreckage was discovered the following morning. The copilot sustained fatal injuries, while the other two occupants were injured. The aircraft was destroyed in the impact.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was the failure of the captain to follow the minimum approach altitude.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 29 Nov 1971 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Aloja, Latvia?
After an unauthorized night flight following a crop-spraying mission in Aloja, the pilot-in-command lost control, causing the aircraft to nose down and crash 3 km north of the airstrip. The copilot was killed, two others injured, and the aircraft destroyed.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Nov 1971 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Nov 1971 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-32207, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Aloja, Latvia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The failure of the captain to follow the minimum approach altitude.