Tragedy Taints Siberian Skies – Vladivostok Air Flight 352

05/08/2023 M.Durgut 1044 Views Aviation accidents, Vladivostok Air Flight 352

On July 4, 2001, a Vladivostok Air Tupolev Tu-154M (tail number RA-85845) operating as Flight 352 tragically crashed near Irkutsk Airport, Russia. The scheduled Yekaterinburg-Irkutsk-Vladivostok flight plunged to the ground during its final approach, claiming all 145 lives onboard.

Vladivostok Air Flight 352
Flight number: XF352
Aircraft: Tupolev Tu-154M
Tail number: RA-85845
Date: July 4, 2001
Time: 20:47 local time
Origin: Yekaterinburg Koltsovo Airport
Destination: Vladivostok International Airport
Fatalities: 145 (all on board)
Survivors: 0

Vladivostok Air Flight 352, the aircraft was en route from Yekaterinburg to Vladivostok via Irkutsk when it crashed during its approach to Irkutsk Airport. The cause of the crash was determined to be pilot error. The pilots failed to maintain the correct speed during the approach, which resulted in the aircraft stalling and crashing.

Echoes of Impact: The crash of Flight 352 sent shockwaves through Russia’s aviation industry. It was the third deadliest aviation accident in the country’s history at that moment, exposing critical weaknesses in pilot training and highlighting the urgent need for improved safety regulations.

Transforming Tragedy: In the wake of the disaster, significant reforms were implemented. Pilot training procedures were revamped, safety regulations tightened, and operational oversight enhanced. These changes, although spurred by tragedy, ultimately contributed to a significant improvement in air travel safety across Russia.

Lessons Engraved: Vladivostok Air Flight 352 remains a grim reminder of the delicate balance between human life and aviation safety. While time heals emotional wounds, the memory of this tragedy serves as a lasting tribute to the victims and a constant call for vigilance in safeguarding air travel.