Accident
The aircraft took off from Peledui at 1805LT. Two minutes and 30 seconds after departure, the crew realized that weather conditions were worse than predicted. The flight encountered below-minima weather conditions including snowfall and poor visibility.
Sequence of Events
While in white-out conditions, the aircraft struck the snow-covered surface of the frozen Lena River, located 7.5 km southwest of the airport. The impact caused the aircraft to cartwheel and come to rest upside down.
Injuries and Damage
Both pilots and both passengers sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
The official findings state the probable cause was the crew's decision to initiate a flight in below-weather conditions (white-out conditions) under VFR mode.