Passenger plane crashes in Russias far east with 49 people onboard feared dead
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Russian Plane Crashes in Far East, Nearly 50 Killed
Above: The site of a crash of a Russian passenger plane crash in the Far East Amur region, Russia on July 24, 2025. Image copyright: Far East Transportation Prosecutor's Office Press Service/Handout/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This tragic crash highlights the dangerous reality of flying aging Soviet aircraft in Russia's harsh conditions. The 50-year-old Antonov was attempting a risky second landing in poor weather when disaster struck. These "flying tractors" may be workhorses, but they're becoming death traps.
Narrative B
The An-24 remains a reliable aircraft well-suited for Siberia's extreme conditions, capable of operating in sub-zero temperatures without requiring proper runways. Aviation incidents have increased due to Western sanctions limiting access to parts and maintenance, not inherent aircraft flaws.