What happened
During a flight originating from Moscow, the crew attempted an approach into Grozny under challenging meteorological conditions. Upon reaching the runway, the aircraft made contact with the ground in a nose-first orientation. This impact caused the nose section of the airframe to separate from the rest of the fuselage.
Following the initial impact, the aircraft continued to slide along the runway surface for several dozen meters before coming to a complete stop. Despite the structural damage to the aircraft, all 172 occupants were able to evacuate the vessel without injury. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.
Findings
- The landing was characterized by an improper pitch attitude, specifically a nose-first impact.
- Adverse weather conditions were present during the approach and landing phase.