Accident Summary
The departure from Moscow-Sheremetyevo Airport was attempted at night under poor weather conditions. The flight was destined for Conakry and Brazzaville. After traveling 1,400 meters on the runway at a speed of 260 km/h, the captain pulled back on the control column and initiated rotation, causing the nose gear to lift off. Several seconds later, after covering 1,850 meters at a speed of 275 km/h and in limited visibility, the left main landing gear struck a snow wall 60 centimeters high. Rather than aborting the takeoff, the captain continued the attempt. Control was subsequently lost, and the airplane veered to the right of the runway before crashing in flames.
Casualties and Damage
Thirteen crew members and eight passengers were killed in the accident. Forty-five other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the crew decided to commence takeoff with visibility limited to 1,000 meters due to fog and snowfall, conditions well below the required minima. The aircraft was not properly aligned on the runway centerline, resulting in the left main gear striking a snow wall. Investigators also found that Sheremetyevo Airport officials bore responsibility for failing to take appropriate actions to ensure the runway was adequately cleared of snow. At the time of the accident, most runway lighting system elements were covered with snow and thus did not provide assistance to the pilot.
Probable Cause
It was determined that the crew decided to attempt takeoff with visibility limited to 1,000 meters due to fog and snow, which was well below the minima. In such conditions, the aircraft was not properly aligned on the runway centerline, causing the left main gear to strike a snow wall. Investigators believe that Sheremetyevo Airport officials also bear some responsibilities for the accident because they failed to take the appropriate actions to ensure that the runway was properly cleared of snow. At the time of the accident, most elements of the lighting system fitted to both sides of the runway were covered with snow and therefore did not constitute pilot assistance.