What happened
On a scheduled service from Vilyuisk Airport to Kyubeinde-Ugulet, an An-2T aircraft, registration RA-01419, experienced significant mechanical issues shortly after departure. While maintaining an altitude of approximately 400 meters, the engine began to overheat, accompanied by a drop in oil pressure. Following the loss of engine power, the crew initiated an emergency return to Vilyuisk.
During the approach, the pilot attempted to land the aircraft in a swampy region located roughly 26 km northwest of the airport. Upon touchdown, the main landing gear sank into the soft terrain. The impact caused the engine to be torn from its mounts and led to the separation of the fuselage. A fire subsequently broke out, resulting in the total destruction of the aircraft. Despite the intensity of the flames, all 11 people on board—comprising the crew and 9 passengers—managed to evacuate without injury.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary reason for the emergency landing was a rise in oil temperature and a drop in pressure below the limits specified in the flight operating manual. The specific cause of this engine malfunction could not be identified because the subsequent fire caused extensive damage to the engine components.
The decision to land in a marshy area contributed to the severity of the accident, as the landing gear became embedded in the soft ground, creating a dynamic pitch-down moment that forced the engine into the ground. This impact severed the fuel lines, allowing gasoline to spray onto hot engine parts and ignite the fire. Additionally, investigators noted that the pilot's failure to shut off the fuel supply and ignition before impact may have contributed to the fire's spread.