2 fatalities

1996-06-13: PZL-Mielec AN-2 (RA-84744) — Aviaagro — Gorkaya Balka, Russia

Gorkaya Balka, RussiaFlight

On June 13, 1996, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration RA-84744) operated by Aviaagro was involved in an aviation accident near Gorkaya Balka, Russia in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The captain suffered a renal colic and was distracted from piloting. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781206967Data APIEditorial standards

While on a spraying mission near Gorkaya Balka, an aircraft struck high-voltage power lines and crashed in a field, bursting into flames. Both pilots were killed. Official findings cite the captain's distraction due to renal colic.

Incident Details

A spraying mission was underway near the village of Gorkaya Balka, located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Zelenokumsk in Stavropol Krai. The aircraft, while cruising at a low height, struck a high-voltage power line. Following the collision, the aircraft crashed into a field and burst into flames. Both pilots, who constituted the entire crew, were killed in the accident. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation into the incident concluded with a probable cause determination. It was established that the captain of the aircraft experienced a renal colic during the flight. This medical condition distracted the captain from his piloting duties, leading to a loss of situational awareness and the subsequent collision with the power line. The distraction was identified as the primary factor in the accident sequence.