5 fatalities

Crew Violation Leads to Fatal Crash on Approach to Nizhneangarsk Airport (CCCP-32464)

Nizhneangarsk, RussiaLanding (descent or approach)

On June 12, 1976, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-32464) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Nizhneangarsk, Russia during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was the consequence of the crew’s violation of the rules for flight operations in accordance with the published procedures established by ULP. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 7 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

On approach to Nizhneangarsk Airport, the crew lost visual contact with ground due to low clouds and limited visibility, striking trees and crashing 4 km short of the runway. The aircraft was destroyed by post-crash fire; two passengers were seriously injured and five other occupants were killed.

Accident Overview

Aircraft on approach to Nizhneangarsk Airport encountered low clouds and limited visibility. The crew lost visual contact with the ground while at an altitude of 150 meters. The airplane struck tree tops and crashed in flames in a wooded area located 4 km short of the runway.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft was approaching Nizhneangarsk Airport when weather conditions deteriorated with low clouds. Visibility became restricted, causing the crew to lose sight of the ground. At an altitude of 150 meters, the aircraft impacted tree tops and subsequently crashed in a forested region short of the intended landing site. The impact was followed by a fire.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of the crew’s violation of the rules for flight operations in accordance with the published procedures established by ULP. Weather and ATC were not considered as contributing factors.

Casualties and Damage

The aircraft was destroyed by a post-crash fire. Among the occupants, two passengers sustained serious injuries. The remaining five occupants—including all other passengers and crew—were killed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jun 1976 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Nizhneangarsk, Russia?

On approach to Nizhneangarsk Airport, the crew lost visual contact with ground due to low clouds and limited visibility, striking trees and crashing 4 km short of the runway. The aircraft was destroyed by post-crash fire; two passengers were seriously injured and five other occupants were killed.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Jun 1976 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jun 1976 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-32464, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Nizhneangarsk, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was the consequence of the crew’s violation of the rules for flight operations in accordance with the published procedures established by ULP.