Fatal ground accident and subsequent stall involving aircraft during engine testing

1 fatality • Chokurdakh, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

A technician was killed following an engine test run that led to an uncontrolled ground roll and a subsequent mid-air stall and crash.

What happened

Following the completion of two scheduled flights in the area, an engine test was requested to address mechanical issues. During this procedure, while the aircraft was stationary on the ground, a technician began the testing process but failed to secure the wheels with chocks. As power was applied to the engine, the aircraft began to move unexpectedly. The pilot, who was positioned by the door during this period, fell from the aircraft as it rolled.

Following the initial ground incident, the aircraft type entered a flight phase where it reached an altitude of approximately 12 meters. During the climb, the plane performed a sharp left-hand turn, which resulted in a stall. The aircraft subsequently crashed in an inverted position. The technician, who was the only person on board during the flight portion, was killed in the accident.

Findings

Investigations into the accident revealed that the movement of the aircraft was triggered because the wheels were not properly secured prior to applying power for the engine test. Additionally, it was determined that during the period following liftoff, a shift in cargo toward the rear of the cabin occurred, which contributed to the loss of control and the eventual stall.

Probable cause

The failure to install wheel chocks before applying full power during an engine test caused an uncontrolled ground roll and subsequent loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1977-03-06 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident near Chokurdakh, Russia?

A technician was killed following an engine test run that led to an uncontrolled ground roll and a subsequent mid-air stall and crash.

Were there any fatalities in the 1977-03-06 PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1977-03-06 involved a PZL-Mielec AN-2, registration CCCP-40572, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Chokurdakh, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure to install wheel chocks before applying full power during an engine test caused an uncontrolled ground roll and subsequent loss of control.

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