Russian Airline Angara Faces Scrutiny After Safety Violations and Fatal Antonov An-24 Crash, What You Need To Know

Published on July 25, 2025

A serious setback for Russian aviation has emerged following the tragic crash of an Antonov An-24 aircraft in the Far East of Russia, which resulted in the deaths of all 48 passengers and crew members aboard. Reports from the Izvestia news outlet reveal that a spot check carried out just one month before the fatal incident uncovered significant safety violations at Angara Airlines, the operator of the doomed flight.

The plane, a Soviet-era Antonov An-24, which had been in service for 49 years, crashed as it was preparing to land, triggering widespread concerns about the safety of aging aircraft in Russia’s fleet. Experts have raised alarms over the viability of these outdated planes, especially in light of Western sanctions that have limited Russia’s access to essential investment and spare parts for maintenance.

Angara Airlines Faces Increased Scrutiny from Regulators

In response to the findings, the Russian Ministry of Transport has announced that it will launch a thorough investigation into Angara Airlines’ compliance with federal aviation regulations. This move comes after serious concerns were raised by the June inspection, which had led to the temporary grounding of eight of Angara’s planes. The investigation aims to determine if the airline is adhering to the safety protocols required for its operations, especially after the disturbing revelations of maintenance lapses.

A Closer Look at the Inspection Findings

According to documents obtained by Izvestia, the June spot check uncovered serious issues with the servicing of Angara’s planes. Specifically, inspectors noted discrepancies between the airline’s documentation and the actual work performed on the aircraft. In some instances, it appeared that planes had been serviced by staff members who were not even working on the relevant days, a clear violation of standard safety procedures. Additionally, key pieces of testing equipment, which are necessary for checking the aircraft’s control panels, were not available for use, even though records suggested that the equipment had been used.

Further concerns were raised about the airline’s staff qualifications. Some personnel were found to be working without the required qualifications to carry out critical maintenance tasks, further exacerbating the safety risks. The inspection also found that Angara’s maintenance teams were not following standard servicing protocols, leading to concerns about the airline’s overall approach to aircraft safety.

Technical Failures and Pilot Error: The Two Main Theories Behind the Crash

In the wake of the crash, Vasily Orlov, the governor of the Amur region, stated that investigators were focusing on two primary theories regarding the cause of the incident: technical failure and pilot error. The plane’s black boxes have been recovered and sent to Moscow for detailed analysis, which will provide crucial information to help determine the exact cause of the crash.

The Antonov An-24, an aircraft dating back to the Soviet era, has been criticized for its outdated technology and limited access to modern parts due to international sanctions. As Russia continues to rely on aging fleets like the Antonov for regional flights, there are growing concerns about the long-term safety of these planes, particularly when they are not properly maintained.

Impact on Russian Business Travel and Tourism

For business travelers and tourists alike, this incident raises critical questions about the safety standards of airlines operating in Russia, especially those relying on older Soviet-era aircraft. Business travelers who frequently fly within Russia or to regional destinations may find themselves questioning the reliability of such carriers, especially if they are operating planes that have been flagged for safety concerns.

For international tourists planning to visit Russia, this tragedy may serve as a reminder to prioritize safety when booking flights. Although there are many reputable airlines operating in Russia, travelers should stay informed about the condition of the aircraft they will be flying on, particularly when flying with regional carriers.

Quick Travel Tips for Tourists and Business Travelers in Russia:

1. Research Your Airline: Before booking, make sure to check the airline’s safety record and maintenance protocols.
2. Consider Alternative Routes: If flying within Russia, consider using larger, more modern airlines with better safety records.
3. Stay Informed: Keep track of any updates regarding airlines’ safety measures and potential regulatory actions taken by aviation authorities.
4. Contact Travel Agencies: Use reputable travel agencies that can offer advice on safe flights and reliable airlines.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Future of Russian Aviation

The deadly crash of the Antonov An-24 and the subsequent revelations of safety violations have cast a long shadow over the future of regional aviation in Russia. While the investigation continues, it is clear that Angara Airlines, along with other carriers operating similar outdated aircraft, will face increased scrutiny in the coming months. The Russian government has a pivotal role to play in ensuring that aviation safety standards are enforced more rigorously, especially when dealing with older planes that may pose significant risks to passengers.

As Russian airlines continue to operate under the constraints of Western sanctions, the future of aviation in the region will likely depend on how the government addresses these safety concerns. For travelers, especially those with business in Russia, this is a wake-up call to stay vigilant when it comes to flight safety. Hopefully, this tragic incident will serve as a catalyst for improving the overall safety and reliability of the Russian aviation industry, making it safer for both tourists and business professionals alike.