Aircraft crash landing following wing drop during initial climb

No fatalities • Aldan, Russia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift on the right wing during its ascent, leading to a collision with a snow wall and subsequent crash landing.

What happened

During the takeoff phase of the flight, the aircraft completed a standard takeoff roll and reached a rotation speed of 178 km/h. Shortly after entering the initial climb, the right wing experienced a significant drop to an angle of 30 degrees. Although the crew attempted to correct the aircraft's attitude using the ailerons, the plane continued its descent.

The descending aircraft struck a snow wall measuring approximately 1.5 meters in height before coming to a stop in a field covered in snow. The impact resulted in the loss of the undercarriage. While the 12 passengers on board were able to evacuate without any injuries, the five crew members sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was determined to be a total loss due to damage beyond repair.

Findings

Investigators were unable to determine the specific reason for the sudden drop of the right wing. While it was confirmed that the takeoff speed used by the pilot was appropriate, the exact cause of the aerodynamic instability remains unidentified.

Probable cause

The specific cause of the right wing dropping during the climb could not be established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1978-04-08 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident near Aldan, Russia?

An aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift on the right wing during its ascent, leading to a collision with a snow wall and subsequent crash landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 1978-04-08 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1978-04-08 involved a Yakovlev Yak-40, registration CCCP-87911, operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines, at Aldan, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The specific cause of the right wing dropping during the climb could not be established.

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