No fatalities

Engine failure during takeoff leads to aircraft crash (CCCP-70814)

Troitsko-Pechorsk, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On May 31, 1987, a PZL-Mielec AN-2 (registration CCCP-70814) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Troitsko-Pechorsk, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The ingestion of dry grass into the engine's air intake caused a loss of power during takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-06-13Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its takeoff roll, resulting in a crash with the status of those on board currently unconfirmed.

What happened

During the initial phase of flight, an aircraft experienced a sudden loss of power immediately following the start of its takeoff sequence. The mechanical failure occurred while the aircraft was still on the ground, leading to a subsequent crash at the departure site.

At this time, information regarding the condition of the occupants remains unavailable, and it is not yet known how many individuals were involved in the accident or if there were any fatalities or injuries.

Findings

Investigations into the incident revealed that the engine failure was triggered by external debris. Specifically, investigators determined that dry grass became lodged within the air intake, which prevented the engine from functioning correctly during the critical takeoff phase.

Probable cause

The ingestion of dry grass into the engine's air intake caused a loss of power during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 May 1987 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Troitsko-Pechorsk, Russia?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its takeoff roll, resulting in a crash with the status of those on board currently unconfirmed.

Were there any fatalities in the 31 May 1987 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 May 1987 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-70814, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Troitsko-Pechorsk, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The ingestion of dry grass into the engine's air intake caused a loss of power during takeoff.