Investigation Summary
The aircraft, operated by the Voluntary Society for Assistance to the Army, Aviation and Navy of Russia (DOSAAF), was conducting a local skydiving mission. Shortly after departing runway 20, the crew identified a failure in the number 1 (left) Walter M-601E engine. According to the regional governor, the pilots attempted to turn the aircraft to avoid inhabited areas while losing altitude. CCTV footage captured the aircraft flying at a low altitude before it impacted ground obstacles in an industrial area southwest of Menzelinsk, approximately 1,700 meters from the airport. Although 6 passengers were initially rescued in serious condition, one later succumbed to their injuries in November 2021, resulting in 17 total fatalities. The Investigative Committee of Russia opened a criminal probe into potential violations of safety regulations, focusing on engine failure and possible overloading as primary factors.
Final Conclusions
The investigation by the Investigative Committee of Russia is ongoing. Preliminary findings indicate the crash was precipitated by the failure of the left engine at a critical altitude of 70 meters. Investigators are examining whether the aircraft was overloaded, as it was carrying 22 occupants at the time of the accident. As of the latest reports, the Central Interregional Investigative Directorate for Transport continues to analyze technical evidence and maintenance records.
Photographic Evidence (1)
Video Analysis
Video of the crash captured by CCTV — Security camera footage showing the final moments of the DOSAAF Let L-410 as it descends at a low altitude before impacting an industrial area near Menzelinsk.
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Airframe & Maintenance
Systems & Failure Modes
Walter M-601E Engine
The L-410 is powered by two turboprop engines; the failure of the left (No. 1) engine during the critical climb phase left the crew with insufficient altitude to complete a safe return.
Fuselage Structure
The aircraft's structural integrity was compromised when it struck a reinforced concrete wall, which contributed to the high fatality rate among the occupants.
Interesting Facts
- 01The aircraft was manufactured in March 1987 (serial number 18-26 / MSN 871826) and had previously served in the Soviet and Russian Air Forces.
- 02The crash site was located approximately 1.7 kilometers from the Menzelinsk Airport air traffic control tower.
- 03There was no post-crash fire despite the total destruction of the fuselage and wings.
- 04The Menzelinsk aeroclub was a known training site for Russian cosmonauts.
- 05The aircraft was re-registered as RF-94591 in 2009 and transferred to DOSAAF in 2011.
Safety Actions & Advisories
DOSAAF Fleet Suspension
DOSAAF Russia suspended all flights of its L-410 aircraft fleet immediately following the accident.
Cosmonaut Training Suspension
The Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center suspended its cooperation with the Menzelinsk flying club pending the investigation results.