Crash of an Antonov AN-26B near Choporti: 33 killed
Date & Time:
Jun 17, 1993 at 2215 LT
Operator:
Registration:
EY-26035
Survivors:
No
Schedule:
Batumi - Baku - Shimkent
MSN:
106 04
YOM:
1981
Crew on board:
5
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
28
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
33
Circumstances:
En route from Batumi to Baku, while cruising at the assigned altitude of 5,100 metres, the crew encountered poor weather conditions with thunderstorm activity and severe turbulences. Shortly later, the aircraft stalled, entered an uncontrolled descent and crashed on the slope of a mountain (690 metres high) located near Choporti. The aircraft disintegrated on impact and all 33 occupants were killed.
Probable cause:
Loss of control in flight following atmospheric turbulences in thunderstorm area.
