No fatalities

Aircraft crash in Sterlitamak due to severe icing (CCCP-29380)

Sterlitamak, RussiaFlight

On March 26, 1972, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-29380) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Sterlitamak, Russia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accumulation of heavy ice on the aircraft during flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-14Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed in a field near Sterlitamak after encountering significant icing conditions during flight.

What happened

During a recent flight operation, an aircraft encountered extreme icing conditions while maneuvering through the airspace. The accumulation of ice on the airframe led to a loss of control, resulting in the aircraft crashing into a field situated in Sterlitamak.

Despite the impact and the severity of the environmental conditions, there were no casualties reported among those on board. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact with the ground, but no injuries or fatalities occurred during the incident.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor in the accident was the presence of heavy icing conditions. The buildup of ice on the wings and control surfaces prevented the aircraft from maintaining stable flight, ultimately leading to the descent into the field.

Probable cause

The accumulation of heavy ice on the aircraft during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Mar 1972 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Sterlitamak, Russia?

An aircraft crashed in a field near Sterlitamak after encountering significant icing conditions during flight.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Mar 1972 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Mar 1972 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-29380, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Sterlitamak, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accumulation of heavy ice on the aircraft during flight.