The Lisunov Li-2 was a Soviet variant of the Douglas DC-3, widely used for both military and civil aviation since the 1940s. On a flight serving the vast and sparsely populated Chukotka region, the aircraft was carrying 12 people, including crew and passengers, when it suddenly encountered severe weather conditions. Eyewitness reports indicated sudden changes in visibility and altitude that likely hindered the pilots' ability to navigate. In an area defined by its extreme climate and rugged terrain, the challenge of flying here often posed significant risks, especially for older aircraft. As the Li-2 made its approach toward Anadyr, it struggled amidst adverse weather before tragically crashing, leading to an abrupt halt of all flight operations around that region for some time as investigations commenced.

As search and rescue operations unfolded, it became clear that recovery efforts would be hampered by the harsh landscape and limited infrastructure present in this remote area of Russia. Subsequent inquiries focused on mechanical failures, human error, and the impact of environmental conditions on the flight. The loss of life in this crash not only brought to light the dangers associated with aviation in challenging environments but also highlighted the need for enhanced safety protocols in Soviet air travel, particularly as the nation sought to expand its domestic airline service.