What happened
While operating a flight from Mys-Kamenlyy to Vorkuta, the aircraft encountered worsening weather conditions characterized by low cloud cover and reduced visibility. In response to the deteriorating environment, the crew attempted to divert the flight back to the departure point of Mys-Kamennyy. However, this maneuver was initiated too late to avoid the terrain.
While flying at an altitude of 452 metres within the cloud layer, the aircraft impacted the slope of Mt Konstantinov Kamen, which has an elevation of 492 metres. The wreckage of the flight was located by search teams a few hours after the impact. The accident resulted in two fatalities involving the pilots, while the eight passengers on board sustained light to moderate injuries.
Findings
- The primary factor in the accident was the delayed decision to return to the airport in response to the encroaching low clouds and limited visibility.