Aircraft impact on Mt Kukurtbash during descent to Makhachkala

51 fatalities • Makhachkala, Russia • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mountain slope near Makhachkala during its approach in poor weather, resulting in the loss of all 51 people on board.

What happened

During an approach to Makhachkala, the aircraft was operating in adverse weather conditions. While navigating through mountainous terrain, the flight crew did not maintain a sufficient altitude for the surrounding topography. At an altitude of 550 metres and traveling at a speed of 366 km/h, the aircraft collided with the slope of Mt Kukurtbash, which has an elevation of 980 metres. The impact occurred approximately 23 km from the destination airport. The collision caused the aircraft to disintegrate, and the accident resulted in 51 fatalities.

Findings

  • The flight was being conducted in poor weather conditions.
  • The crew failed to maintain adequate altitude while flying over mountainous terrain.

Probable cause

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was at an insufficient altitude while flying over mountainous terrain in poor weather.

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-11-07 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident near Makhachkala, Russia?

An aircraft crashed into a mountain slope near Makhachkala during its approach in poor weather, resulting in the loss of all 51 people on board.

Were there any fatalities in the 1991-11-07 Yakovlev Yak-40 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 51 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-11-07 involved a Yakovlev Yak-40, registration CCCP-87526, operated by Yugavia, at Makhachkala, Russia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The crew failed to recognize that the aircraft was at an insufficient altitude while flying over mountainous terrain in poor weather.

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