Accident Details
The aircraft was conducting a crop-spraying mission for the Sovietskaya collective farm in the Arkhangelskaya region. After the lunch break, the crew allowed an unauthorized passenger to board. The aircraft then completed 11 passes over the cultivated areas. During the flight, the captain relinquished control to the copilot. While flying at an altitude of 10 meters, the aircraft entered a right turn, banked to an angle of 15°, and struck the ground in a field at a speed of 165 km/h.
Injuries and Fatalities
The copilot and the passenger sustained fatal injuries. The captain was injured.
Probable Cause
The official investigation found that the captain permitted the copilot to fly, which was contrary to published procedures. Additionally, the crew allowed an illegal passenger to board.