Fatal crop-spraying accident near Devyaternya, Tatarstan

2 fatalities • Devyaternya, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

A crop-spraying mission ended in a fatal crash after an aircraft struck trees during its initial climb near the Karl Marx collective farm.

What happened

During a scheduled agricultural mission for the Karl Marx collective farm in the Argyz district of Tatarstan, an aircraft was engaged in crop spraying. The flight departed from a location situated near a forested area. Shortly after liftoff, while the aircraft was in its climbing phase, it collided with birch trees measuring approximately 24 meters in height.

The impact occurred roughly 1,162 meters away from the takeoff point. Following the collision, a post-crash fire broke out, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both members of the flight crew perished in the event. At the time of the incident, meteorological conditions were reported to be favorable.

Findings

Investigations into the crash identified that the crew made a poor decision regarding the takeoff orientation by facing the wooded area during departure. Additionally, the presence of orographic waves was noted as a contributing factor to the accident.

Probable cause

The crew's decision to perform a takeoff facing a forested area led to the collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1972-05-08 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Devyaternya, Russia?

A crop-spraying mission ended in a fatal crash after an aircraft struck trees during its initial climb near the Karl Marx collective farm.

Were there any fatalities in the 1972-05-08 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1972-05-08 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-45292, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Devyaternya, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's decision to perform a takeoff facing a forested area led to the collision with trees.

Loading the flight search…