Incident Overview
During a scheduled flight leg from Kungrad to the KS-7 Airfield at Komsomolsk-na-Ustyurte, the crew encountered weather conditions below minimums, specifically poor visibility. The aircraft was part of a flight originating from Kungrad and destined for Karakalpakiya, carrying two unauthorized passengers.
Accident Sequence
Upon arrival, the crew continued the approach despite the below-minima weather. They subsequently lost visual contact with the ground and deviated from the intended approach path. The aircraft collided with a drilling tower at an altitude of 35 meters; the tower itself was 52 meters high. Impact was followed by a crash and fire.
Casualties and Injuries
The accident resulted in the deaths of one pilot and one passenger. Two other individuals survived but sustained serious injuries.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was the crew's decision to continue the approach in below-weather minimums, coupled with the failure to initiate a go-around and return to the departure point. Additionally, both passengers were not authorized to embark.