5 fatalities

Intoxicated Crew in Leaflet Drop Crash Kills Five (CCCP-70225)

Seshenovo, RussiaFlight

On May 1, 1989, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-70225) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Seshenovo, Russia in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew was intoxicated at the time of the accident. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine aircraft conducting a May Day leaflet drop crashed after descending too low in strong winds, striking trees and burning. All five occupants were killed; the crew was intoxicated.

Accident Overview

A single-engine aircraft on a local demonstration flight in Seshenovo crashed and was destroyed by fire. The aircraft carried three passengers and two pilots, and was engaged in dropping leaflets to celebrate the 1st of May.

Sequence of Events

The crew descended too low when the aircraft encountered strong winds. The aircraft struck trees and crashed in flames in a square. The aircraft was destroyed by fire.

Occupants and Fatalities

All five occupants—two pilots and three passengers—were killed in the accident.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined that the crew was intoxicated at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 May 1989 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Seshenovo, Russia?

A single-engine aircraft conducting a May Day leaflet drop crashed after descending too low in strong winds, striking trees and burning. All five occupants were killed; the crew was intoxicated.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 May 1989 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 May 1989 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-70225, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Seshenovo, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew was intoxicated at the time of the accident.