1 fatality

Takeoff Abandoned on Wet Runway Leads to Overrun and Destruction (CCCP-87398)

Rostov-on-Don, RussiaTakeoff (climb)

On May 2, 1974, a Yakovlev Yak-40 (registration CCCP-87398) operated by Aeroflot - Russian International Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Rostov-on-Don, Russia during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The crew decided to takeoff from an inadequate runway for such type of aircraft (too short runway). Poor flight preparation as the V1 & V2 speed were not verified and properly calculated prior to takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

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

After a 1,040-meter roll on wet runway 03, the captain aborted takeoff with only 40 meters remaining. The aircraft overran, struck an embankment and a hammock, broke up, and came to rest in a ravine, killing the flight mechanic and injuring 18.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft began its takeoff roll on wet runway 03. After traveling 1,040 meters, the captain decided to abandon the takeoff procedure. At that point, only 40 meters of runway remained. Unable to stop within such a short distance, the aircraft overran the runway end. It continued for another 185 meters, colliding with an embankment. Subsequently, it struck a hammock, broke apart, and came to rest in a ravine. The aircraft was destroyed.

Occupants and Damage

The accident resulted in one fatality: the flight mechanic was killed. Eighteen other occupants sustained injuries, while 19 occupants were unhurt. The aircraft itself was completely destroyed.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the crew's decision to take off from a runway that was inadequate for such type of aircraft—specifically, too short. Additionally, poor flight preparation was noted, as the V1 and V2 speeds were not verified and properly calculated prior to takeoff. Other factors considered as contributing included aircraft weight, the wet runway, and weather conditions.