No fatalities

Multi-Engine Aircraft Accident After Takeoff (CCCP-87328)

Kirov, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On October 6, 1975, a Yakovlev Yak-40 (registration CCCP-87328) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Kirov, Russia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the power reduction could not be determined with certainty. However, the assumption that it may be caused by a wrong manipulation on part of the flight engineer was not ruled out. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, while climbing to 5 meters, the landing gears were retracted and all three engines lost 70% power. The aircraft belly landed, overran, and struck approach lights before coming to rest in flames. All 32 occupants evacuated quickly; the aircraft was destroyed.

Accident Sequence

Following takeoff, as the aircraft climbed to a height of 5 meters, the landing gears were retracted. Simultaneously, power on all three engines dropped by 70%. The captain decided to abort the climb and land back on the runway.

During the landing, the aircraft made contact with the ground on its belly, overran the runway, and collided with various approach lights and equipment. It then came to rest engulfed in flames.

Evacuation

All 32 occupants on board were quickly evacuated from the burning aircraft. The aircraft was subsequently destroyed by the fire.

Probable Cause

According to the official investigation, the exact cause of the power reduction could not be determined with certainty. However, the assumption that it may have been caused by a wrong manipulation on the part of the flight engineer was not ruled out.