Moscow, July 24 (V7N) – A passenger plane carrying around 49 people, including crew, has crashed in Russia’s Far East while en route to Tynda in the Amur region, which borders China. Rescue operations are underway, but no survivors have been found yet, according to local authorities.

The ill-fated aircraft was an Antonov-24, a Soviet-era turboprop operated by Angara Airlines. The plane, reportedly around 50 years old, had a documented history of technical issues, including engine problems, landing gear failures, and emergency landings, according to Reuters.

Officials said the plane disappeared from radar before it was scheduled to land in Tynda. Aerial searches have so far failed to locate any survivors, though ground teams are continuing operations in the dense forested area believed to be the crash site.

Videos released by local Russian media showed smoke and flames rising from what appears to be the crash location deep in the forest. Initial reports from Russia’s Emergencies Ministry indicated that 40 people were on board, but that figure was later revised to 49.

“All necessary rescue forces have been deployed,” said Vasily Orlov, governor of the Amur region, in a statement on Telegram.

The crash has renewed concerns about Russia’s continued use of aging aircraft, many of which remain in operation despite growing concerns about their airworthiness and safety.

Sources: The Guardian, Reuters

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