Accident Sequence
The flight originated from Odessa and was uneventful until the approach phase. The crew was cleared to descend to 1,200 meters. As they entered the final approach, weather conditions deteriorated with thunderstorm activity and heavy rainfall. Despite limited visibility and the actual conditions, air traffic control cleared the aircraft to continue the approach and to land.
The three-engine aircraft crossed the runway threshold at a height of 40 to 50 meters and at an excessive speed of approximately 250 km/h. It touched down well beyond the intended landing point on the wet runway surface. The crew initiated braking, but the aircraft was unable to stop within the remaining distance. It overran the runway, rolling about 450 meters before striking two trees, crossing a road, and coming to rest in a field. A post-crash fire erupted, destroying the aircraft.
Casualties and Damage
Two crew members and six passengers were killed in the accident, while 21 other occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed by the post-crash fire.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather conditions were below the established airport minimums for landing.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident was the consequence of the combination of the following factors:
- The crew decided to continue the approach in below minimum weather conditions at an excessive speed and above the glide slope, causing the aircraft to land too far down the runway.
- The crew failed to initiate a go-around procedure.
- Air traffic control cleared the crew to land and failed to close the airport and to divert the flight to another suitable airport.
- Poor organization by meteorological services.