An Antonov An-72 aircraft crashed in southern Kazakhstan on 25 December, killing all 27 onboard.

The military transport aircraft, bound for Shymkent from the capital Astana, belongs to the country's border troops, says Kazakhstan's National Security Committee.

In a statement on its website, it adds that the aircraft crashed at 18:55 local time, about 20km from Shymkent airport, when making an approach.

Kazakh An-72 crash
© Kazakh National Information Agency

The aircraft was carrying seven crew members and 20 servicemen, including the border patrol director.

No further details were given. The incident is now under investigation.

Local media reports say weather conditions in southern Kazakhstan have been unfavourable over the past weeks, with strong winds and heavy snow.

Source: Flight International