Prime Minister Modi Expresses Condolences Following Fatal Russian Plane Crash

On July 24, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow in response to a tragic plane crash in Russia's Far East that claimed the lives of all 48 individuals on board. The Soviet-made Antonov-24 aircraft, operated by Angara Airlines, was on a flight from Blagoveshchensk to Tynda when it lost radar contact around 1:00 PM local time. The crash occurred in a forested area approximately 15 kilometers south of Tynda Airport, where a rescue helicopter later discovered the burning wreckage.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, Modi stated, "Deeply saddened at the loss of lives in the tragic plane crash in Russia. Extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. We stand in solidarity with Russia and its people." The aircraft was reported to have been carrying 43 passengers and 5 crew members, including five children, although discrepancies in passenger counts were noted, with some reports indicating 48 individuals on board. The Amur region's governor, Vasily Orlov, confirmed the tragic loss of life, and Russian authorities have initiated an investigation into the accident.

The Antonov-24, a twin-propeller aircraft nearly five decades old, had an airworthiness certificate reportedly extended until 2036, according to sources such as Russianplanes.net. While weather conditions were cited by Angara Airlines CEO Sergei Salamanov as a potential factor in the crash, the exact cause remains undetermined. The Russian emergency ministry has initiated a thorough investigation, and the region has declared three days of mourning in memory of the victims.

This incident has prompted international condolences, including a message from Chinese President Xi Jinping to Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing sympathy for the grieving families. The crash highlights ongoing concerns regarding aviation safety, particularly involving older aircraft models still in operation. As investigations unfold, the implications of this tragedy will resonate not only within Russia but also in the broader international aviation community, raising questions about regulatory oversight and air travel safety standards.

As authorities work to uncover the cause of the crash, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved families and addressing public safety concerns regarding the aging aircraft fleet in Russia. The aftermath of this incident may lead to renewed scrutiny of aviation regulations and airworthiness standards, with the potential for policy changes aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.