Accident Details
The crew was originally dispatched to the Nizhny Lomov area for an aerial spraying mission for the Potminsky State Farm. To celebrate the copilot's birthday, they invited a farmer, organized a dinner, and consumed alcohol. Following the festivities, the crew took off for a local tour without authorization. At dusk, while flying at a very low altitude, the aircraft struck an obstacle and crashed. All three occupants sustained injuries.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was the crew's initiation of a local private flight without authorization after consuming alcohol. The unauthorized nature of the flight and the crew's alcohol consumption were central to the incident.