Russian investigators have opened an inquiry into the accident involving a Katekavia Antonov An-24 which crashed on landing at the northern city of Igarka.

The aircraft came down yesterday in darkness at 01:19.

Katekavia's schedule shows that it operates a regular service, KYU57, to Igarka from Krasnoyarsk.

Russia's Interstate Aviation Committee (MAK) has identified the twin-turboprop as bearing registration RA-46524.

Meteorological data from Igarka around the time of the accident shows declining visibility and rain showers, with overcast cloud and cumulonimbus activity.

Several fatalities are reported from among 11 passengers and four crew members on board the aircraft, which is said to have come down short of the runway.

Igarka has a single runway designated 12/30.

Katekavia says it operates around a dozen An-24s, configured with 48 seats, but in the last couple of weeks has taken delivery of a Tupolev Tu-134A.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news