What is the source for the above quote? Is it reliable, or is it just an "I reckon this could have happened" type piece?
This theory was published by several newspaper. It was formulated by group of specialist and coworkers of Yablontsev in UAC. It is supposed that they are informed about FDR, CVR and other results of investigation. Of course it is not official statement, but I suppose that they published it with tacit(?) consent of heads of corporation. This crash is very important and sensitive topic in Russia. I also think that Russians are little uptight to wait so long for preliminary report. But there is no second possibility, let’s wait for preliminary report too - it is too early to do final conclusions.
It is hard to believe that they did mistake like this. But this theory is not in contradiction with known facts. I thing that if CVR did not give answer why they turn against the mountains, we never be sure what theory is correct. Looking on chart, I thing that they should follow the course 020 and they flew 200. This was last 7 miles or last 2,5 minutes.
Findings from the investigation into the May 9 crash of a Sukhoi Superjet 100 will be released by the end of summer, Russian officials said.