Incident Overview
The aircraft departed Basel Airport on a cargo flight to Moscow, carrying six crew members and a load of cigarettes. While cruising at an altitude of 10,600 meters, the crew declared an emergency after smoke spread in the cabin. The crew elected to divert to Prague-Ruzyne Airport.
Emergency Landing
As the situation on board deteriorated, the crew was forced to attempt an emergency landing in an open field located in Velichovská, near Jaroměř. In a flapless configuration, the aircraft landed at a speed of 370-390 km/h in a marshy field, struck a two-meters embankment, and crashed in several pieces, bursting into flames.
Escape and Injuries
All six crew members escaped with minor injuries.
Investigation Findings
The probable cause of the fire on board was investigated. The exact cause could not be determined with certainty, but it is believed that the likely cause could have been an electric stove left on in the side kitchen.