Accident
During the takeoff roll at Khorugh Airport, the crew initiated rotation upon reaching Vr speed. The aircraft did not respond and failed to lift off. It continued at high speed, overran the runway, collided with a concrete wall located 150 metres beyond the runway end, and eventually crashed into the Pyanj River.
Four passengers were rescued, while 82 other occupants were killed. Most of the deceased were women, children, and soldiers.
Probable Cause
The accident occurred during the Tajik Civil War. According to official findings, soldiers forced the crew to embark as many passengers as possible, despite the Yak-40 being certified for a maximum of 32 passengers. At the time of the accident, 81 passengers were on board. The total weight of the aircraft was three tons above its maximum takeoff weight, making takeoff impossible under those conditions.