An Antonov An-24 passenger plane carrying approximately 50 people crashed in Russia’s far east on Thursday. Initial reports from Russian emergency services officials indicate that everyone on board is presumed dead.
Wreckage Found in Dense Forest
The burning fuselage of the Soviet-era plane, which was nearly 50 years old, was spotted on the ground by a helicopter. Unverified video footage, shared on social media, appeared to show the aircraft downed in a wooded area.
Flight Details
The plane, built in 1976 and operated by the Siberia-based airline Angara, was en route from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda when it dropped off radar screens while approaching the remote town in the Amur region, which borders China. Preliminary information provided by regional governor Vasily Orlov reported 43 passengers, including five children, and six crew members on board. However, the emergencies ministry later adjusted this figure to about 40 people.
Recovery Operations Underway
Debris from the plane was discovered on a hill approximately 15 km (10 miles) from Tynda, according to Interfax news agency. Yuliya Petina, an emergency services official, stated on Telegram, “During the search operation, a Mi-8 helicopter belonging to Rossaviatsiya discovered the fuselage of the aircraft, which was on fire. Rescuers continue to make their way to the scene of the accident.”
Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash to determine the cause of this tragic incident.
