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Injuries and Destruction After Takeoff in Below-Minima Weather Near Peledui (CCCP-40479)

Peledui, RussiaFlight

On January 30, 1993, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-40479) operated by Yakutavia was involved in an aviation accident near Peledui, Russia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew's decision to initiate a flight in below-weather conditions (white-out conditions) under VFR mode. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

The crew of an aircraft decided to take off from Peledui despite poor weather. Two minutes later, they encountered white-out conditions and struck the frozen Lena River, injuring all four occupants and destroying the aircraft.

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.

Weather

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jan 1993 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Peledui, Russia?

The crew of an aircraft decided to take off from Peledui despite poor weather. Two minutes later, they encountered white-out conditions and struck the frozen Lena River, injuring all four occupants and destroying the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jan 1993 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jan 1993 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-40479, operated by Yakutavia, at Peledui, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew's decision to initiate a flight in below-weather conditions (white-out conditions) under VFR mode.

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