What happened
During an approach to Zhdanov Airport, the pilot-in-command attempted to complete the descent using Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite the SP-50 ILS system being inactive. While transitioning between the outer and inner markers, the three-engine airplane entered a dense fog bank, causing the crew to lose visual reference with the ground.
As the aircraft descended at an inadequate altitude, the right wing collided with a concrete pole measuring 9 meters in height. The impact partially severed the wing and ignited a fire on the airframe. Following the collision, the aircraft rolled 90 degrees to the right and continued traveling for another 420 meters before coming to a final rest. Investigators located the wreckage 610 meters before the runway threshold and 140 meters to the right of the extended centerline.
The accident resulted in 8 fatalities (comprising three crew members and five passengers) and 20 injuries. The aircraft was completely destroyed during the event.
Findings
Investigation into the crash determined that the primary factor was the decision by the pilot-in-command to continue the approach under VFR conditions while operating in IMC (Instrument Meteorological Conditions).