Fatal aircraft crash following unauthorized cockpit occupancy

2 fatalities • Voroshilovgrad, Ukraine • Flight

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area during a low-altitude turn after the crew permitted unauthorized passengers to occupy the cockpit.

What happened

During a flight involving an unspecified aircraft, the captain permitted three individuals to board the plane in violation of established company regulations. To accommodate these passengers within the cockpit area, the pilot instructed the co-pilot to relocate to the main cabin.

Shortly after departure, while the aircraft was operating at a low altitude, the pilot began executing a turn to the left. During this maneuver, the aircraft collided with trees in a forested region. The impact caused the plane to crash and subsequently ignite into a fire. The accident resulted in two fatalities, including the pilot, and one passenger. Additionally, three other occupants sustained injuries during the event.

Findings

Investigations into the incident highlight that the crew's decision to allow unauthorized passengers to occupy the cockpit space was a significant departure from protocol. The sequence of events suggests that the collision with vegetation occurred while the aircraft was in a low-altitude flight phase during a turn.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to allow unauthorized passengers into the cockpit and the subsequent loss of control during a low-altitude turn led to the collision with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1988-04-21 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Voroshilovgrad, Ukraine?

An aircraft crashed into a wooded area during a low-altitude turn after the crew permitted unauthorized passengers to occupy the cockpit.

Were there any fatalities in the 1988-04-21 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1988-04-21 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-31498, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Voroshilovgrad, Ukraine.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to allow unauthorized passengers into the cockpit and the subsequent loss of control during a low-altitude turn led to the collision with trees.

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