A tornado hit Begishevo airport in Nizhnekamsk, scattering planes
On July 30, 2023, an emergency occurred at Begishevo Airport, located in Nizhnekamsk, which attracted the attention of not only local residents, but the entire country. At around 14:00 Moscow time, a hurricane-force wind hit the airfield, followed by a tornado, which caused serious damage to the airport, the Aviaincident Telegram channel reports.
According to information received from the airport, the tornado lifted several light aircraft that were parked in the air. In particular, the Diamond DA-42 training aircraft belonging to the St. Petersburg University of Civil Aviation were damaged. As a result of the strong wind, four of them overturned and were displaced from their parking places. In addition, an AC-50 helicopter, a fuel tanker, three buses and three hangars on the territory of the airfield were hit by the elements.
At the moment, the extent of the damage is being clarified, but it is already obvious that the consequences of the elements can be significant. The tornado not only damaged the aircraft, but also damaged administrative buildings: roofs were blown off, the siding of houses was damaged, and in some places windows were broken. There were no reports of casualties.
According to the administration, Begishevo Airport was not closed and there were no delays in the flight schedule. Arriving aircraft did not divert to alternate airfields. At 15:02 local time, a yellow alert was issued, indicating that safety measures were taken immediately.
The Mash Telegram channel published a video showing the elements affecting aircraft and other objects. The footage clearly demonstrates the power of a hurricane wind and the destructive consequences it can cause.
Rosaviatsia has launched an investigation into the incident.