Dozens killed in plane crash in Rostov-on-Don, Russia
A FlyDubai Boeing 737-800 flying from Dubai crashed as it was attempting to land in Rostov-on-Don. It is not clear what caused the crash, but poor visibility and high winds are considered to be the main factors. The crash killed all 55 passengers and seven crew members.
FlyDubai said 44 Russians, eight Ukrainians, two Indians and an Uzbek were on board.
CCTV footage showed an explosion and a huge flash after the plane crashed.
"The aircraft hit the ground and broke into pieces," the Investigative Committee of Russia said on its website.
The Boeing aircraft came down about 250 meters short of the start of the runway in Rostov, some 950 kilometers south of Moscow.
According to preliminary information, the plane crashed attempting its second landing after the first attempt was aborted.
Both black boxes have been found at the crash site and an investigation has been opened to determine the cause of the tragedy.
According to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Press Secretary, Dmitry Peskov, “the Head of State noted that now the main thing is to work with the families and friends of the victims.”
"The President of Russia sends his deep condolences to all those who lost loved ones in the crash," Peskov said.