What happened
While performing a takeoff roll at Yerevan-Erebuni Airport, the pilot of the aircraft observed a military bus entering the active runway. At a speed of 95 km/h, the flight crew attempted evasive maneuvers, initially turning to the right and then to the left to prevent a direct impact. During these maneuvers, the aircraft's right wing struck the minibus as the plane reached a speed of 110 km/h.
The force of the collision caused the destruction of the bus and resulted in the right wing of the aircraft being partially torn away. The aircraft continued along the runway for an additional 300 metres before coming to a complete stop. While all 37 people on board the aircraft were able to evacuate without injury, the impact on the ground vehicle was severe. Of the 10 individuals traveling on the bus, four fatalities were recorded, and six others sustained serious injuries.
Findings
- The collision was caused by a military bus entering the runway during the aircraft's takeoff roll.