**Russia’s Aging Aviation Infrastructure Exposed in Deadly Plane Crash**
A devastating plane crash in Russia’s Amur Oblast on July 24 has claimed the lives of all 49 people on board, highlighting the country’s growing aviation safety concerns. The An-24 passenger plane, which was manufactured in January 1976, had reached the end of its planned service life but continued flying after its airworthiness certificate was renewed.
According to reports, the plane failed to land at its final destination on the first try and then circled for a second attempt before vanishing from radar. A Mi-8 helicopter later found the smoldering wreckage on a mountainside about 15 kilometers from the Russian city of Tynda. This tragic incident marks at least the fourth major problem involving the An-24 in recent years.
The crash has raised questions about Russia’s aviation industry, which has been severely impacted by Western sanctions imposed after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The country’s regional carriers, such as Angara Airlines, have been struggling to maintain their fleets due to a lack of access to modern spare parts and technology.
In January, the CEO of Angara Airlines requested permission to continue flying decades-old An-24 and An-26 aircraft, citing a shortage of replacements. Unfortunately, this decision has proven fatal for the passengers on board the latest crash. Technical failures have become increasingly common in recent months, with two separate Russian passenger planes forced to turn back shortly after takeoff due to engine malfunctions.
As the investigation into the July 24 crash unfolds, it is likely that Russia’s aviation authorities will face increasing pressure to address these safety concerns and invest in modernizing their infrastructure. The country’s citizens deserve safe air travel, and it is crucial that measures are taken to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
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