Accident Description
A single-engine aircraft conducting an aerial spraying operation for the 'Rossia' State Farm experienced an abnormal takeoff from an airfield in Raklevichi. The takeoff roll was prolonged, and the aircraft became airborne with insufficient climb speed. One minute after liftoff, the aircraft struck the tops of pine trees and crashed into a glade. The copilot sustained fatal injuries, while the captain was injured. The aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation
The official investigation determined the probable cause as the crew's failure to adequately prepare the flight and to follow the pre-takeoff checklist. Additionally, the aircraft was overloaded at a total weight of 5.7 tons, and the flaps were not positioned correctly for the takeoff procedure. It was reported that the captain had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.9‰.