AN-2 RA-40204 06.02.2016

The accident with An-2 RA-40204 aircraft owned by "Light Air" Airline, CJSC occurred near Saverovka locality, Gaysky district, Orenburg region (RF) on February 6, 2016. According to the available information two crew members and a passenger were killed, the aircraft was destroyed.

The Interstate Aviation Committee has assigned the Investigation team of the accident in accordance with the Russian Aviation Legislation. The Investigation team has started its work.

The Interstate Aviation Committee Investigation team has completed the investigation of the accident with An-2 RA-40204 owned by "Light Air" Airlines CJSC occurred in the Orenburg region on February 6, 2016. 

Most probably the fatal accident with An-2 RA-40204 aircraft was caused by spatial disorientation by the crew turning in visibility restriction conditions (fog) and "whiteout" of snow underlying surface that resulted in uncontrolled descending and aircraft ground impact. 

Most probably the following factors contributed to the accident:

- incorrect evaluation of weather conditions by the crew resulted in unreasonable decision to perform VFR flight;

- flight operation at the unauthorized law height above ground;

- lack of IFR operation skills, training and checks for minima reduction by PIC were formal, weather conditions during operations didn't comply with assigned minima requirements.  

Appropriate safety recommendations based on the investigation results were developed.