Several killed in jet crash in Russia
October 10, 2021
At least 16 people were killed and seven injured on Sunday as an L-410 jet crashed in the Republic of Tatarstan, east of Moscow, Russian media reported.
What we know about the crash
Russia's Emergency Ministry confirmed that 23 people had been on board. They also said that the plane had been carrying parachute jumpers.
The plane crashed around 9:23 a.m. local time (0623 UTC), the ministry said, adding that seven people have been rescued from the debris so far.
Local health authorities said that seven survivors are in hospital, and one is in "very serious condition," the Russian state-owned RIA Novosti news agency reported.
Additionally, the remaining 16 are "without signs of life," an emergency worker told RIA Novosti.
What about the aircraft?
The short-range Let L-410 Turbolet is made by Czech manufacturer Let Kunovice. It is often used by smaller airlines and some militaries. It is known for its ability to operate in adverse weather conditions and land on small, unpaved runways.
According to the Interfax news agency, the plane belonged to the Voluntary Society for Assistance to the Army, Aviation and Navy of Russia, which describes itself as a sports and defense organization.
Two L-410 aircraft suffered fatal accidents in Russia earlier this year.
Russian aviation safety standards have improved in recent years but accidents, especially involving ageing planes, are not uncommon. Last month, an Antonov An-26 twin-engine turboprop crashed in the Russian far east, killing six people. Meanwhile, all 28 people on board an Antonov An-26 twin-engine turboprop died in a crash in Kamchatka in July.
lc, es/fb (AFP, Reuters, dpa)