Pilot Dies as Crop-Dusting An-2R Strikes Power Lines in Kazakhstan

KAZAKHSTAN — A fatal aviation accident occurred on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, near Zhelezinka in the Pavlodar region of Kazakhstan when an Antonov An-2R aircraft struck power lines during crop-dusting operations.

The aircraft, registration UP-A0288 operated by ELISA, was destroyed in the crash. One pilot was killed and another occupant was injured in the accident.

Accident Details

According to the Aviation Safety Network (ASN), the WSK-PZL built Antonov An-2R was conducting agricultural spraying operations when it collided with power lines near the populated area of Zhelezinka. The accident occurred during the maneuvering phase of flight.

Industry Context

The Antonov An-2 is a Soviet-designed utility biplane extensively used in agricultural applications worldwide. Wire strikes represent a significant hazard in agricultural aviation, particularly for low-flying aircraft operating near infrastructure.

No official investigation report has been issued by Kazakhstan's aviation authorities. Further details are expected as the investigation proceeds.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.