A Soviet-era Antonov An-24 aircraft, manufactured in January 1976 and past its intended service life, crashed in Russia’s Amur Oblast, killing all 49 people on board. According to the Moscow Times, the plane had continued flying despite its airworthiness certificate being renewed, raising questions about maintenance standards and aviation safety protocols.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred in a remote area of the region. Rescue teams are currently working to recover the wreckage and locate the victims. The incident has prompted calls for stricter oversight of aging aircraft fleets, particularly those in countries with aging aviation infrastructure.
Analysts note that the An-24 is a relic of the Soviet era and has been largely phased out of commercial service in many countries. However, its continued operation in Russia highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining safety standards for older aircraft. The incident underscores the importance of regular maintenance and rigorous inspection protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.