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Brussels - The International News Safety Institute today extended its deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the Iranian journalists tragically killed in a military plane crash. Initial reports said 68 news media staff were among the 94 passengers and crew who died when a military plane hit a Tehran apartment block and burst into flames yesterday. At least 22 more people were killed on the ground, in their homes or cars. "This is a tragic day for all in the news business," said INSI Director Rodney Pinder. "It is an awful reminder of the risks journalists routinely take to cover the news." The disaster -- the worst single death toll for journalists on assignment -- brings the toll of news media staff who have died covering the news this year to 160. Last year's total of 117 was the worst in 10 years. INSI records all news media deaths on assignment, whether of journalists or support staff and whether deliberate or by accident or from ill health. The Iranians, mostly radio and television journalists, were en route to the southern city of Bandar Abbas to cover military exercises when their US-made Hercules C-130 plane crashed. Almost 30 of the dead were believed to be from the state broadcasting network. Air safety experts say Iran has an ageing, poorly maintained fleet of aircraft due in part to U.S. sanctions. INSI supports calls for a full and open inquiry into the accident in the name of safety for all who may travel on these aircraft. |