Jews of Irkutsk Pray for Air Crash Victims

IRKUTSK, Russia – Many Jewish travelers were among the passengers on the A-310 airliner from Moscow to Irkutsk which crashed during the landing in the airport, Rabbi Aaron Wagner of Irkutsk said.

At a meeting with Rabbi Wagner, the city’s Mayor shared the latest information about the tragedy and promised help for victims' families. Rabbi Wagner said 50 passengers were able to escape thanks to the courage of a flight attendant who opened the emergency exit.

“This Airliner crash has taken away lives of many different people. Therefore, in my opinion, the best memorial for them would be prayer rooms for representatives of all religions in the airport,” Rabbi Wagner stated.

This morning, a memorial service was held in the Synagogue of Irkutsk as well as a prayer for the speedy recovery of those injured in the crash. According to Rabbi Wagner, flight attendant Viktoria Zilberstein, who rescued passengers from the burning aircraft, is now at the 3rd City Hospital, and her condition is good.

The Jewish Community of Irkutsk is staying in touch with the Air Crash Investigation Board and authority officials and is ready to provide the required psychological, medical and any other assistance to all the injured.

"The Jewish Community of Russia is deeply saddened by the tragedy in Irkutsk which caused deaths of many people. We share the grief of the families of those who died in the crash, amongst which are many members of our community. We pray for the speedy recovery of injured", said Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar in a letter of condolence to relatives and families of the victims.

Tomorrow, 10AM, a public prayer service will take place in the Synagogue of Irkutsk. At this service, all Jews of the city will appeal to G-d for a full and speedy recovery for all those who are now hospitalized as a result of this tragedy.

We will also pray to G-d for the full and speedy recovery of our compatriot, flight attendant Viktoria Zilbershtein, who rescued many passengers from the burning aircraft in spite of her own serious injuries.