Aircraft collision with drilling tower near Komsomolsk-na-Ustyurte

2 fatalities • Komsomolsk-on-Ustyurte, Uzbekistan • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft flying from Kungrad crashed into a drilling tower during an approach in poor visibility, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

During a flight originating from Kungrad and destined for the KS-7 Airfield at Komsili Komsomolsk-na-Ustyurte, the aircraft encountered weather conditions that were below established minimums. The flight, which was part of a route to Karakalpakiya, was also carrying two unauthorized passengers at the time of the incident.

As the crew attempted the arrival, they lost visual contact with the ground due to poor visibility. Instead of performing a missed approach or returning to the previous location, the aircraft deviated from its intended approach path. This deviation led to a collision with a drilling tower, which stood 52 metres tall, at an altitude of approximately 35 metres. Following the impact, the aircraft crashed and subsequently caught fire.

Findings

  • The crew attempted to continue the approach despite visibility being below required minimums.
  • The crew failed to execute a return to the previous position after losing visual contact with the terrain.
  • The accident resulted in two fatalities and left the remaining survivors with serious injuries.

Probable cause

The crew's decision to continue the approach in low-visibility conditions and their failure to execute a missed approach led to a deviation from the flight path and subsequent collision.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-11-23 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Komsomolsk-on-Ustyurte, Uzbekistan?

An aircraft flying from Kungrad crashed into a drilling tower during an approach in poor visibility, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-11-23 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 1991-11-23 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-81545, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Komsomolsk-on-Ustyurte, Uzbekistan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's decision to continue the approach in low-visibility conditions and their failure to execute a missed approach led to a deviation from the flight path and subsequent collision.

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