What happened
During a flight traveling from Kyzyl toward Mugur-Aksy, specifically on the leg between Teeli and Mugur-Aksy, the aircraft encountered cloud cover while attempting to approach the destination airport. During this descent, the crew drifted away from the established approach path, moving toward the nearby mountain range.
Although the flight crew eventually decided to execute a go-around maneuver, the action was initiated too late to avoid impact. The aircraft struck a snow-covered mountain slope at an altitude of approximately 300 meters above the airport's elevation. The terrain involved was part of a peak reaching 2,123 meters, situated roughly 7 km west of the airfield. Following the collision, the aircraft caught fire and was destroyed by the flames.
The accident resulted in six fatalities among the passengers. The remaining eight occupants, which included both pilots, sustained serious injuries during the crash.
Findings
Investigation into the accident determined that the crew utilized an incorrect approach configuration. This deviation from standard operating procedures caused the aircraft to follow an improper path toward the mountains. While the decision to perform a go-around was appropriate, the timing of the maneuver was insufficient to prevent the collision. Additionally, reduced visibility due to adverse weather conditions served as a contributing factor to the event.