Russian Aging An-24 Plane Crashes Near Tynda Killing 48

A Russian Antonov An-24 passenger plane operated by Angara Airlines crashed during its second approach to land at Tynda Airport in the Amur Region, killing all 48 people on board. The aircraft, manufactured in 1976, was nearly 50 years old and had its airworthiness certificate extended to 2036, allowing it to fly passenger journeys up to 60 years after its maiden flight, which is notably longer than typical international standards that phase out planes after about 35 years. The Interstate Aviation Committee reported no system failures prior to the crash, and flying conditions were reported as suitable with no distress calls issued. Rescue efforts were hampered by difficult mountainous terrain near the crash site. Angara Airlines had previously highlighted the necessity to extend the service life of its aging An-24 fleet due to Western sanctions limiting access to maintenance staff and spare parts. A criminal investigation and a state of emergency have been declared in the Amur Region, with three days of mourning announced.