Ukrainska Shkola Pilotov

Let L-410

Owned by Skaidens (Skydance), the twin engine aircraft was engaged on local skydiving mission and operated on behalf of the Ukrainska Shkola Pilotov (Ukrainian Pilots' School). On board were 20 skydivers and two pilots. After take off from Borodyanka Aerodrome, the crew realized that weather conditions deteriorated and that a thunderstorm was approaching the airfield. The crew decided to cancel the mission and to return to the airport. On final approach, the aircraft encountered downdrafts and microburst. It lost height and crashed in a field some 900 meters short of runway threshold. Five skydivers were killed while 17 other occupants were injured, some seriously.