Russian IL-18 Plane Crash Lands

A Russian IL-18 plane with 39 onboard crash landed in Russia's Sakha Republic (Yakutia) on early hours of Monday.

"As a result of the accident, all passengers and crew members are alive. Sixteen individuals sustained severe injuries. Search-and-rescue helicopters have evacuated 23 people to regional health centers of Tiksi [settlement]," the Russian Defense Ministry said later adding that 32 people were hospitalized.

“According to the report from the scene, the plane crash landed today at 4:45 [local time] 30 kilometers from Tiksi Airport. The aircraft was carrying out a scheduled flight from Kansk Airfield,” the ministry added.

The crash-landing was caused by a severe gusting side wind, according to preliminary data provided by local authorities and cited by RIA Novosti news agency.

The plane reportedly belongs to Russian Aerospace Forces, was carrying 32 passengers and seven crew members.