Night Approach Accident at Domodedovo Airport (CCCP-42503)

Accident Overview and Immediate Impact The descent to Domodedovo Airport began at night under marginal weather conditions, with limited visibility caused by snowfall. During the final approach, the aircraft was unstable and not properly aligned on the glide path. The captain initiated a left turn, which resulted in a left bank of 35 to 40 degrees. The left wing struck the ground 135 meters short of the runway threshold and 25 meters to the right of the extended centerline. The aircraft then became uncontrollable, crashed in flames, and came to rest 340 meters past the threshold and 220 meters to the left of the runway. The post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft. Five crew members and seven passengers were killed, while 63 other occupants were injured. Within 10 days after the accident, four additional passengers died from their injuries.