Fatal crop spraying accident near Novoaleksandrovsk

3 fatalities • Novoaleksandrovsk, Russia • Flight

A single-engine aircraft crashed during a mission in Novoaleksandrovsk, resulting in three fatalities and the total destruction of the plane.

What happened

During a morning agricultural mission for the 'Lenin' kolkhoz, an aircraft was performing crop spraying operations near Novoaleksandrovsk. While flying at an altitude of approximately 40 meters and maintaining a distance of 800 meters from its target area, the plane suddenly pitched downward. The impact resulted in a fire in an open field, which led to the total destruction of the aircraft.

All three occupants on board were killed in the crash.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified crew intoxication as the primary factor in the loss of control. Post-accident blood analysis confirmed that the captain had an alcohol concentration of 4,04‰, while the copilot's level was measured at 0,43‰. Due to the circumstances of the crash, investigators could not definitively establish which individual was acting as the pilot-in-command during the flight.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the crew operating the aircraft while under the influence of alcohol.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-09-23 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Novoaleksandrovsk, Russia?

A single-engine aircraft crashed during a mission in Novoaleksandrovsk, resulting in three fatalities and the total destruction of the plane.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-09-23 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-09-23 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-32079, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Novoaleksandrovsk, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the crew operating the aircraft while under the influence of alcohol.

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