Aging Russian Plane Crash Near Tynda Kills Dozens

A nearly 50-year-old Antonov An-24 operated by Angara Airlines crashed near Tynda in Russia’s Far East during a second landing attempt, killing all 48 or 49 people on board, including several children and crew members. The plane disappeared from radar and was found burning on a remote mountainside, with passengers reportedly having experienced fumes and technical issues prior to the final flight. The aircraft had been delayed two hours in Blagoveshchensk for repairs before departure. Russian authorities are investigating possible regulatory violations and technical malfunctions, while aviation experts cite concerns over the safety of aging aircraft exacerbated by international sanctions. The Amur region declared three days of mourning, and condolences were offered by world leaders, including from India and China. The crash underscores persistent safety and maintenance challenges in Russia’s regional aviation sector.