In December 1988, Armenia experienced a catastrophic earthquake that led to widespread destruction and a significant loss of life. In response, the Soviet Air Force deployed several aircraft to deliver essential humanitarian aid to the affected areas. On December 11, an Il-76 transport aircraft, belonging to the Soviet Air Force, took off with the crucial aim of delivering supplies such as food, medical equipment, and other necessities to the devastated regions. Tragically, the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 78 individuals onboard, including crew members and humanitarian workers.

The cause of the crash was investigated, with initial conjectures pointing to technical failures possibly exacerbated by the conditions arising from the relief operation. Furthermore, the high demands on military transport aircraft during this period, undertaking multiple missions to deliver aid, highlighted the pressing needs of the disaster-affected population. As the Soviet Union was still heavily engaged in providing relief, this incident became emblematic of the challenges faced during large scale humanitarian operations in the aftermath of a natural calamity and raised alarms regarding operational safety and protocols.

In the aftermath of the crash, attention focused not only on the loss of life but also on how airlift operations could be improved in the future. It underscored the need for rigorous safety check protocols and better training for crews involved in humanitarian missions, especially in high-stress scenarios following natural disasters. This incident resonated deeply within the context of Soviet humanitarian missions, revealing both the dedication of the armed forces to aid victims and the intrinsic risks associated with such operations.