PZL-Mielec AN-2 crash, Oct 27, 1978 (14 killed), Saratov-...
PZL-Mielec AN-2 accident on October 27, 1978 near Saratov-Tsentralny Saratov oblast, Russia with 14 fatalities. Cause: The crew continued the approach...
- Date: October 27, 1978
- Aircraft: PZL-Mielec AN-2
- Location: Saratov-Tsentralny Saratov oblast, Russia
- Fatalities: 14
- Phase of flight: Approach and landing
- Cause: The crew continued the approach below weather minima and failed to see and avoid ground obstacles. Contributing factors were an approach clearance issued when a diversion was arguably needed and inaccurate weather information given to the crew.
On 27 October 1978 Aeroflot PZL-Mielec An-2 CCCP-05706 was flying a scheduled Balashov to Saratov service. While descending to Saratov-Tsentralny in low cloud and rain, the crew continued the approach and struck treetops about 4.5 km west of the airport. Rescuers reached the site at 2200 LT. The copilot and an unlisted passenger were seriously injured and 14 occupants were killed.