Aeroflot Flight 1668 was a domestic flight operated by Aeroflot, the Soviet state airline, which tragically crashed while approaching Olyokminsk. This flight operated under the Soviet-era aviation system was carrying several passengers along with a crew when it encountered severe weather conditions during its descent. The aircraft, a Tupolev Tu-154, was part of a fleet that was known for its extensive use in domestic routes throughout the Soviet Union. As it neared Olyokminsk, the plane faced difficulties due to low visibility and possibly icing conditions, leading to its fatal descent in a remote area.

The investigation into the crash revealed a combination of weather-related factors and potential navigational errors. Witness reports from the ground indicated that the skies were overcast, with heavy snowfall that likely obscured visibility for the pilots. Many of the passengers were either returning home or traveling for business, highlighting the flight's operation as an important connector within the vast Soviet Union. 45 lives were tragically lost in this incident, prompting discussions about air safety standards and operational protocols within the Soviet aviation industry.

Following the crash, Aeroflot and the Soviet authorities implemented more stringent regulations to enhance safety in civil aviation. The investigation findings later led to a reevaluation of training programs for pilots operating under challenging weather conditions, showcasing the necessity for improvements in both pilot training and aircraft maintenance standards. Changes initiated as a result of this incident would impact future aviation safety regulations in the region, focusing on preventing similar tragedies in the future.