No fatalities

Aircraft accident during takeoff attempt near Semipalatinsk (CCCP-33233)

Semipalatinsk, KazakhstanTakeoff (climb)

On September 13, 1972, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-33233) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident resulted from the crew attempting to take off from a location that was not prepared or authorized for flight operations. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft sustained significant damage after attempting to depart from an unauthorized landing site near Semipalatinsk.

What happened

Following a decision by the crew to land at a location not designated for such operations, an accident occurred near Semipalatinsk. After touching down on this unsuitable terrain, the flight crew attempted to initiate a takeoff from the same site. During this subsequent departure attempt, the aircraft experienced an accident.

Findings

  • The incident involved an unauthorized landing at an uncertified location.
  • The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it a total loss.
  • There were 0 fatalities and no injuries reported among the occupants.
  • The primary factor in the accident was the crew's decision to operate from an unsuitable landing site.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from the crew attempting to take off from a location that was not prepared or authorized for flight operations.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Sept 1972 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan?

An aircraft sustained significant damage after attempting to depart from an unauthorized landing site near Semipalatinsk.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Sept 1972 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Sept 1972 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-33233, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident resulted from the crew attempting to take off from a location that was not prepared or authorized for flight operations.