All 48 Onboard Killed in Russian Plane Crash Near Tynda

A passenger plane operated by Angara Airlines has crashed in Russia’s Far East, killing all 48 people on board, officials confirmed on Thursday.

The Soviet-designed An-24 aircraft was en route to Tynda, a remote town in the Amur region, when it lost contact with air traffic control and vanished from radar. The wreckage was found 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of its intended destination, according to Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry.

The plane had departed from Khabarovsk, made a stop in Blagoveshchensk near the Chinese border, and was completing the final leg of its journey when the crash occurred.

Adverse Weather and Aircraft Age Cited

The cause of the crash remains unclear. However, Interfax news agency cited unnamed emergency officials who reported adverse weather conditions at the time. Russian media also noted that the aircraft was nearly 50 years old, raising concerns about the aging fleet used in regional routes.

Photos and videos shared by Russian state media show the charred fuselage in dense forest, with smoke rising from the crash site.

Second Attempt to Land

The Far East transport prosecutor’s office stated that the plane was attempting a second landing approach when it lost communication. Regional Governor Vasily Orlov confirmed the tragic loss of all passengers and crew and declared three days of mourning in the Amur region.

“This is a terrible tragedy,” Orlov said. “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims.”

Initial reports stated 49 people were aboard, but officials later confirmed the number to be 48. The reason for the discrepancy was not immediately explained.

Aviation Safety Probe Launched

Authorities have opened an investigation into flight safety violations resulting in multiple deaths, a standard legal step following aviation disasters in Russia.

Russia’s aviation sector has faced growing challenges in recent years due to international sanctions, leading to limited access to aircraft parts and maintenance services. These issues have raised concerns about the safety of aging aircraft, particularly on remote domestic routes.

The crash of the Angara Airlines flight adds to a growing list of aviation incidents in the country and underscores the need for renewed focus on aircraft maintenance and regulatory oversight.

Source: AP News