Dozens Feared Dead As Russian Passenger Plane Crashes

Tragedy struck in Russia’s Far East as a Soviet-era Antonov An-24 passenger plane operated by Angara Airlines crashed in a remote forested area of the Amur region, with nearly 50 people feared dead, according to Russian emergency officials.

The aircraft, built in 1976, vanished from radar while en route on a scheduled flight from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda. The plane lost communication with air traffic control as it neared its destination, Tynda, a secluded town near Russia’s border with China.

Initial reports from Governor Vasily Orlov indicated that 43 passengers, including five children, and six crew members were on board. However, Russia’s Emergency Ministry later revised the total number of people on the flight to around 40.

Wreckage was located roughly 15 kilometers (10 miles) from Tynda by a Mi-8 search helicopter from Rossaviatsiya. The helicopter crew reported discovering the burning fuselage deep within a wooded area. Emergency response teams are currently facing challenging terrain as they attempt to access the crash site.

Disturbing, unverified footage circulated on social media appears to show the charred remains of the aircraft nestled in dense forest, prompting fears that there may be no survivors.

Emergency official Yuliya Petina confirmed via 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.”

An official investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the crash, renewing concerns over the safety and longevity of aging aircraft still in operation across remote regions of Russia.