What happened
During a scheduled agricultural spraying operation departing from Russkaya Zhuravka, an aircraft carrying a payload of 1,050 kilograms of ammonium nitrate experienced a loss of directional control. The flight crew, consisting of one pilot and one mechanic, was conducting a local mission when the aircraft began to deviate toward the left during the takeoff roll. This deviation occurred while the aircraft was operating with a tailwind.
In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied corrective inputs but ultimately chose to initiate rotation as early as possible. Following liftoff, the aircraft continued to veer to the left, leading to a collision with nearby trees. The impact caused the aircraft to flip onto its back. Despite the impact, both occupants survived the accident without injuries. The aircraft sustained heavy damage and was declared a total loss.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating under tailwind conditions during the takeoff phase.
- The pilot's decision to rotate early following a leftward deviation contributed to the subsequent collision with vegetation.