Plane carrying 173 passengers veers off runway in Russia PHOTO

An S7 Airlines Boeing 737-800 carrying 173 passengers veered off the runway after landing at Mirny Airport in Russia's Yakutia region, prompting transport prosecutors to launch an investigation into the incident.

The aircraft was operating a scheduled flight from Novosibirsk to the city of Mirny. According to the West Siberian Transport Prosecutor's Office, there were 173 passengers and six crew members on board, and no injuries were reported, Caliber.Az informs. 

"The Novosibirsk Transport Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation to ensure the airline is complying with flight safety regulations," the prosecutor's office said in a statement.

The East Siberian Transport Prosecutor's Office said the aircraft sustained damage during the runway excursion and that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated.

The office added that airport authorities had temporarily closed Mirny Airport to takeoffs and landings following the incident.

S7 Airlines told TASS that the aircraft's crew has been suspended from flight duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

By Sabina Mammadli