- A Russian An-22 transport aircraft crashed in Ivanovo Region with seven crew members on board, according to local media.
- The aircraft type had been previously slated for retirement by 2024, raising questions about continued use or transfer to other security agencies.
A Russian An-22 heavy-lift military transport aircraft has crashed in the Furmanovsky district of Ivanovo Region, according to initial reports from Russian media.
The incident occurred on December 9 and involved a military aircraft identified as an An-22 “Antei.”
The aircraft reportedly carried seven crew members at the time of the crash. Their status remains unknown, and no official confirmation regarding casualties has been issued.
Emergency services have been deployed to the crash site. Rescue and recovery operations are underway, though access to the scene may be complicated due to the aircraft’s size and the surrounding terrain.
According to REN TV, “The crash occurred in the Furmanovsky district of the Russian region. There were seven crew members on board. Their fate is currently unknown.”
The Telegram channel Shot also reported that the aircraft may belong to the Russian Ministry of War. In its post, Shot stated, “The aircraft may be operated by the Ministry of Defense of Russia. Emergency services are currently working at the scene.” No official statement from Russian military or regional authorities has been issued.
The An-22 “Antei,” developed in the Soviet Union, is the world’s largest turboprop-powered aircraft. Originally introduced in the 1960s, the aircraft is capable of transporting heavy cargo, including military vehicles and equipment, across long distances. It has four turboprop engines with contra-rotating propellers and a high-mounted wing, and it remains in limited service within the Russian military fleet despite its age.
No information has been released about the possible cause of the crash.
Notably, earlier statements from Russian authorities had indicated that the Aerospace Forces (VKS) would cease operating An-22 aircraft starting in 2024. The crash has raised questions over whether the aircraft was officially decommissioned or possibly transferred to other government security agencies.