Accident Overview
On a flight from Moscow-Zhukovsky Airport to Severomorsk-Safonovo Naval Air Station, an aircraft carrying 16 people crashed on final approach. The accident occurred when the left wing struck an electric pole at an altitude of 206 meters. The aircraft then lost height, crashed, and burst into flames. The captain survived with minor injuries, while the other 15 occupants were killed.
Flight and Weather Conditions
The aircraft had departed Moscow-Zhukovsky Airport bound for Severomorsk-Safonovo NAS. During the approach, the crew encountered adverse weather conditions characterized by poor visibility. These conditions likely affected the crew's ability to navigate visually.
Sequence of Events
On final approach, the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) activated, alerting the cockpit that the aircraft was too low. Simultaneously, the navigator informed the captain that the aircraft had deviated approximately one kilometer to the left of the intended approach path. Despite these warnings, the captain disregarded them. He also ignored instructions from air traffic control (ATC). The aircraft continued to deviate and descend until the left wing struck an electric pole at 206 meters above ground. The collision caused the aircraft to lose altitude and crash, resulting in a post-crash fire.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause was the captain's failure to follow approach procedures. He ignored warnings from the GPWS, other crew members, and ATC instructions. Under the prevailing conditions, he allowed the aircraft to drift from the approach path and descend below the minimum safe altitude until impact.