What happened
During an approach to an airport following a routine flight from Odessa, the crew encountered deteriorating weather characterized by heavy rain and thunderstorm activity. Although visibility had dropped below established airport minimums, air traffic control provided clearance for the aircraft to proceed with the landing.
The three-engine aircraft crossed the runway threshold at an altitude of approximately 40 to 50 meters while traveling at a high speed of roughly 250 km/h. Due to this excessive velocity and the wet state of the runway, the aircraft touched down too far down the strip. Despite attempts by the crew to apply brakes, the plane could not stop within the available runway length.
The aircraft exited the runway, traveling approximately 450 meters before colliding with two trees and crossing a roadway. The sequence ended in a field where the wreckage ignited. The accident resulted in 8 fatalities (comprising two crew members and six passengers) and 21 injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the subsequent fire.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements. The primary factor was the decision by the flight crew to proceed with the approach despite weather conditions being below legal minimums, while maintaining an excessive speed and a glide path that led to a long touchdown. Additionally, the crew did not execute a go-around maneuver.
Further contributing factors included air traffic control providing landing clearance during poor visibility instead of diverting the flight or closing the airport, as well as deficiencies in the organization of meteorological services.