Accident
A single-engine aircraft engaged in crop spraying operations crashed after losing engine power shortly after takeoff. The accident occurred in Baranikovskiy while the aircraft was treating a rice paddy field.
Aircraft and Crew
The aircraft had been fueled with 250 liters of E95 fuel prior to the flight. A technician noted that the fuel appeared abnormally yellow, but the pilot decided to proceed. The pilot, contrary to published procedures, asked the copilot to remain on the ground and replaced him with the owner of the area to be treated.
Flight and Impact
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft did not accelerate as expected, yet the pilot continued. After liftoff, while climbing to about 30 meters, the pilot initiated a 90° left turn, at which point the engine lost power. The pilot released the chemical load and attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft struck the ground, continued for approximately 134 meters, hit an irrigation drain, nosed over, and burst into flames. The pilot was killed; the passenger sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by a loss of engine power because the aircraft had been refueled with fuel dedicated to automobiles. Contributing factors identified were: the pilot's lack of knowledge about the flight area and cultivated field layout, the pilot's failure to brake properly during the emergency landing, the absence of a copilot on board, and the operator certificate having been revoked three days prior to the accident.