Authorities have began a frantic search operation after a Russian passenger plane carrying dozens of people in the nation’s far eastern region suddenly vanished this morning, 24th of June, 2025.
The missing plane, an An-24 twin turboprop aircraft, was operated by Angara Airlines, a regional carrier based in Siberia.
The aircraft reportedly disappeared from radar during its final approach to Tynda, a town in the Amur region, which borders northeastern China.
According to Regional Governor, Vasily Orlov, the flight was carrying 43 passengers, including 5 kids and 6 crew members, bringing the total onboard to 49. However, the local emergencies ministry maintains that just 40 individuals were onboard.
“All necessary forces and means have been deployed to search for the plane,” Governor Orlov clarified via Telegram.
Emergency services have since mobilized air and ground search teams to track the missing plane, with major focus on Tynda and surrounding terrain.
Sadly, Tynda is popular for its rugged landscape and low visibility, which could make any potential rescue operation very difficult.
The Antonov An-24, launched in the 1960s, remains in service with several carriers across Russia and the former Soviet states, mostly on short-haul routes in remote areas.
While the aircraft type is known to guarantee quality service, old equipment and harsh weather conditions in Siberia pose ongoing challenges for regional aviation safety.
As at when the plane vanished, weather conditions around the Amur region were reported to be favourable, however, officials have yet to rule out environmental or technical problems.
No distress signal was received before contact was lost with air traffic control.
