📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
A tragic incident unfolded near Moscow as a Russian passenger jet crashed while flying empty, resulting in the loss of its crew of three individuals. The Sukhoi Superjet, owned by Gazprom Avia, went down in the Moscow region, leading to a devastating outcome. The plane was on its way to Moscow’s Vnukovo airport after undergoing repairs when the crash occurred. Authorities have initiated an investigation into the crash to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
The Russian-made Superjet 100, designated as SSJ100, was considered a significant achievement for the country’s civil aviation industry upon its introduction in 2011. However, the aircraft has faced safety concerns and a checkered history. Previous incidents involving the Superjet have raised questions about its safety and reliability, including a crash in Indonesia in 2012 that resulted in the loss of all 45 individuals on board. Another tragic event occurred at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport in May 2019, where the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, claiming the lives of 41 passengers. These incidents have highlighted the challenges and risks associated with the Superjet’s operation.
The investigation into the recent crash near Moscow will seek to uncover the factors that contributed to the tragedy. Initial reports suggest that both of the plane’s engines may have failed, potentially due to birds entering them during takeoff. The Investigative Committee, Russia’s top state criminal investigation agency, is leading the probe to determine the exact cause of the crash. As the aviation industry grapples with this loss, questions are being raised about the safety standards and operational reliability of the Superjet aircraft.
Despite its initial promise and praise from Russian officials, the Superjet 100 has faced challenges, including technical malfunctions and high maintenance costs. These issues have led to hesitancy among Russian carriers to adopt the aircraft, impacting its market success both domestically and internationally. The tragic crash near Moscow serves as a poignant reminder of the risks involved in aviation and the importance of stringent safety measures and oversight in the industry. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the crew members who lost their lives in this heartbreaking incident.
