Tragic news from Russia’s Far East as an Antonov An-24 passenger plane carrying nearly 50 people crashed near the remote town of Tynda on Thursday.
Initial reports from Russian emergency services officials suggest that everyone on board is feared dead. The burning fuselage was spotted by a Mi-8 helicopter belonging to Rossaviatsiya during a search operation. Rescue crews are urgently making their way to the densely forested crash site, which is complicating their efforts.
The unverified video circulating on social media appears to show the aircraft wreckage in a heavily wooded area. The plane, built in 1976 and operated by the Siberia-based airline Angara, was en route from the city of Blagoveshchensk to Tynda when it dropped off radar screens while approaching its destination in the Amur region.
According to preliminary data provided by regional governor Vasily Orlov, there were 43 passengers on board, including five children, along with six crew members. However, the Emergencies Ministry reported the number of people on board to be slightly lower, at around 40.
Debris from the plane was found on a hill approximately 15 kilometers from Tynda, as reported by the Interfax news agency citing emergency service officials. Yuliya Petina, an emergency services official, wrote 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 announced an investigation into the crash as rescue teams continue their urgent mission. The cause of the accident remains unclear, and officials are working to gather more information amid challenging conditions.
Reference(s):
Russian plane crashes in far east, nearly 50 people aboard feared dead
cgtn.com
