On July 21, 2013, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration UR-ART) operated by Albatross Avia was involved in an aviation accident near Pyatikhatki, Ukraine in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A loss of engine power caused by the failure of the valve on cylinder n°9 that remained in open position due to an excessive deposit of calamine (soot). This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
While crop spraying in Crimea at 35-40 meters, engine failed. Emergency landing in a rice paddy resulted in the aircraft nosing over and being destroyed; both occupants uninjured.
Accident
The crew was conducting a crop spraying flight in the Krasnoperekopsk District of the autonomous Republic of Crimea. While flying at a height of about 35-40 meters, the engine failed. The crew attempted an emergency landing in a rice paddy field near Pyatykhatki.
Aircraft Damage
During the landing, the wheels became stuck in the soft ground. The aircraft nosed over and came to rest upside down, resulting in damage beyond repair.
Occupants
Both occupants escaped uninjured.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause was a loss of engine power caused by the failure of the valve on cylinder n°9 that remained in an open position due to an excessive deposit of calamine (soot).