Antonov An-24 Crash in Russia Claims Lives of Nearly 50

An Antonov An-24 twin turboprop regional airliner crashed in southeastern Russia today, resulting in the tragic loss of nearly all 50 individuals on board. The aircraft, operated by Angara Airlines, went missing during a domestic flight from Blagoveshchensk Airport (BQS) to Tynda Sigikta Airport (TYD) after performing a go-around this morning. Local rescue teams located the wreckage approximately 10 miles from Tynda, confirming that there are no survivors.

The flight, designated HZ2311, was transporting 49 people, consisting of 43 passengers and six crew members. While several sources, including the Aviation Safety Network, have corroborated this number, the BBC reported a slightly lower figure of 48. Regardless, the loss of life is a significant tragedy, with five children among those on board.

Details of the Incident

The aircraft’s wreckage was discovered in a dense forest area, with eyewitness accounts indicating that the fuselage was on fire upon discovery. An official from Rosaviatsiya, Russia’s federal air transport agency, stated, “During the search operation, a Mi-8 helicopter discovered the fuselage of the aircraft.” Rescue teams are currently making their way to the crash site, although the challenging terrain may impede access.

Initial investigations are concentrating on the possibility of technical failure or pilot error, particularly given the reported weather conditions. While visibility was adequate at over 9,999 meters, there were indications of low clouds and light rain, which may have contributed to the incident. Nonetheless, emergency officials have noted that the weather was not severe at the time of the crash.

The Aging Fleet of Angara Airlines

The Antonov An-24 involved in today’s incident, registered as RA-47315, was nearly 50 years old, having been manufactured in 1976. This situation raises ongoing concerns about the state of Russian domestic aviation, where operators are increasingly relying on aging aircraft due to Western sanctions prohibiting the delivery of new planes and crucial spare parts. Airlines in Siberia have previously petitioned the Russian government to allow the continued operation of these older aircraft.

Angara Airlines has faced scrutiny regarding its safety record. The Aviation Safety Network has documented that RA-47315 has been involved in four incidents since 2018, including an in-flight depressurization during a ferry flight in 2017. Other fatal accidents involving Angara’s Antonov An-24 planes occurred in 2011 and 2019.

As emergency responders continue their efforts in the challenging terrain, the tragedy underscores the pressing need for reform in aviation safety standards and the urgent call for modernizing Russia’s aging fleet.