Incident Overview
On an unspecified date, a pilot and a flight mechanic consumed alcohol throughout the evening. Unable to find a place to sleep in Bilovodske, they decided to return to Nedryhailiv. They conducted a night takeoff from Bilovodske Airstrip.
Loss of Orientation and Control
Four minutes after takeoff, the pilot lost his orientation and elected to return to the airstrip. Shortly thereafter, he suffered spatial disorientation and lost control of the airplane. The aircraft crashed less than 2 km east of Perekopivka (coordinates N50°37' E33°28'), approximately 3 km south of Bilovodske Airstrip.
Injuries
Both occupants were seriously injured in the crash. The passenger died in a hospital 15 days later.
Probable Cause
Official findings attributed the accident to loss of control after the pilot suffered spatial disorientation while intoxicated. The flight was unauthorized.