A passenger aircraft operated by Angara Airlines has reportedly crashed near the city of Tynda in Russia’s Amur region, close to the Chinese border, after it lost radar contact shortly after takeoff.
According to multiple media reports, the Antonov AN-24 aircraft was carrying 43 people, including five children and six crew members, when it went off the radar during its descent for landing. The incident occurred in a remote and rugged area approximately 15 kilometers north of Tynda.
Smoke and Wreckage Spotted Near Crash Site
Emergency teams and local police who reached the crash site have reported spotting smoke rising from a hillside and discovering burnt wreckage of the aircraft scattered across the terrain. While no official confirmation of the crash has been issued yet by federal authorities, footage of the destroyed aircraft has circulated widely on social media platforms.
Amur Region Governor Vasily Orlov confirmed the incident, stating that search and rescue operations were underway and that emergency teams were responding promptly.
About the Aircraft: Antonov AN-24
The Antonov AN-24 is a twin turboprop aircraft developed during the Soviet era, primarily used for short- and medium-haul routes. Known for its ability to operate on rough and unpaved runways, the aircraft has been a mainstay in regional aviation across Russia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Asia. First flown in 1959, the AN-24 remains in service in remote regions due to its rugged reliability.
Investigations Underway
Security agencies and aviation experts are currently at the site, working to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are attempting to determine the reason behind the sudden loss of contact and the subsequent tragedy. The region’s challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions are also being considered as contributing factors.
Challenges of Aviation in Remote Areas
This tragic incident underscores the difficulties of maintaining air safety in isolated regions like Siberia, where harsh landscapes and limited infrastructure can complicate both flight operations and emergency responses.
As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge regarding the fate of the passengers and crew, and the circumstances that led to the apparent crash.