Aeroflot Flight 5463, operating a domestic route from Sverdlovsk to Almaty, crashed into Dolan Mountain, approximately 20 kilometers from Almaty International Airport. The aircraft, a Tupolev Tu-154, encountered unfavorable weather conditions characterized by low visibility and cloud cover during its descent. On approach, the flight crew misjudged their altitude due to a combination of navigational errors and inadequate information about the mountainous terrain. This led the aircraft to collide with the mountain, resulting in the catastrophic failure of the plane and the loss of all 90 lives on board, including passengers and crew members.

In the aftermath of the incident, investigations revealed that the crew had been inadequately trained to navigate in such challenging conditions. Additionally, it highlighted systemic issues within Aeroflot regarding safety protocols and maintenance practices. The flight data recorder indicated that the crew was unaware of their descent into dangerous terrain until it was too late. Consequently, the disaster prompted higher scrutiny of Soviet aviation safety standards and procedures. Changes were proposed to ensure improved training for pilots, better weather forecasting technologies, and enhanced communication protocols with air traffic control.

The tragedy at Dolan Mountain stands as a solemn reminder of the risks associated with aviation in mountainous regions. Subsequently, similar incidents led to international efforts aimed at improving aviation safety across the globe. The legacy of Flight 5463 continues to influence aviation regulations in post-Soviet states, as the event underscored the importance of pilot training and navigational safety in preventing future accidents.