Single-engine aircraft crash near Šilale

1 fatality • Šilalė, Lithuania • Flight

An unauthorized flight following crop-spraying operations resulted in a fatal aircraft accident near Šilale when the pilot struck trees.

What happened

After completing agricultural spraying tasks in the vicinity of Šilale, an unauthorized flight was initiated shortly after sunrise. A few minutes into the flight, the single engine aircraft collided with trees, leading to a crash that ignited a fire approximately 7 km away from the departure airstrip. The impact and subsequent flames resulted in the total destruction of the airplane and the death of one fatality.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the pilot was operating the aircraft while under the influence of alcohol. Post-accident medical examinations determined that the pilot's blood alcohol concentration was 2.8 ‰, identifying pilot intoxication as the primary factor in the loss of control.

Probable cause

The pilot operated the aircraft while significantly impaired by alcohol consumption.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1965-08-25 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Šilalė, Lithuania?

An unauthorized flight following crop-spraying operations resulted in a fatal aircraft accident near Šilale when the pilot struck trees.

Were there any fatalities in the 1965-08-25 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1965-08-25 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-05856, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Šilalė, Lithuania.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot operated the aircraft while significantly impaired by alcohol consumption.

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