What happened
During a repositioning flight departing from Kharyaga toward Ust-Tsilma, the aircraft experienced an engine failure shortly after lifting off from the runway. In response to the loss of power, the crew attempted to perform a return to the departure airport. However, the aircraft was unable to maintain the necessary airspeed and altitude required for a successful landing.
As the flight progressed, the aircraft cleared a telegraph line but subsequently lost stability. The left wing made contact with the ground, leading to an impact with the tundra approximately 400 metres before reaching the runway threshold. The accident resulted in four fatalities, including both pilots and two passengers who were serving as aircraft mechanics on board.
Records indicate that the crew had operated flight SU917 from Ust-Tsilma to Kharyanga via Novy Bor just one day prior to the accident. That previous mission had been halted at Kharyaga due to mechanical issues, which led to the dispatch of two technicians to the airport, who were the passengers on this fatal flight.
Findings
- The primary factor in the crash was an engine failure occurring during the initial climb phase.