An engine fire was reported en route and the aircraft crashed while attempting to return to Magadan.

[4][1] The aircraft turned around in an attempt to land back at Magadan, but shortly after disappeared from radar.

It had first flown in 1963 and at the time of the accident was the oldest Russian registered aircraft flying in commercial service.

[4][1] The Interstate Aviation Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States opened an investigation into the accident.

As a result of the accident, the operation of the Antonov An-12 within Russia was banned until a risk assessment programme had been completed.