Russia's richest businesswoman dies in plane crash
Natalia Fileva, one of Russia's richest businesswomen, died in a plane crash in Germany.
Businesswoman Natalia Fileva, 55 years old, the 4th richest woman in Russia, co-owner of S7 Airlines, died in a plane crash near Frankfurt, Germany on March 31.
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| Burnt plane wreckage |
German police said that Fileva's six-seat single-engine Epic E1000 light aircraft had departed from France and was en route to the town of Egelsbach, Germany, when it crashed in a field near the town of Erzhausen, 10 km (6 miles) from Frankfurt. At least three people, including the pilot, were on board when the accident occurred. Authorities are still working to identify the other victims. Some reports said that the billionaire's father was also on board.
Natalia Fileva is the wife of Vladislav Filev, co-founder and CEO of S7 Airlines, Russia's largest private airline. The couple has four children, including one adopted child. The businesswoman's personal fortune is estimated at $600 million. In a statement, S7 Airlines said: "The members of S7 extend their deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Natalia Fileva."
Russian experts will join the investigation into the crash. So far, German media reports say the pilot of the Epic E1000 did not report any problems to aviation authorities during the flight.
According to police, the plane crashed while preparing to land at Egelsbach airport. As soon as it touched the ground, the plane burst into flames and was completely destroyed. Debris was scattered around the scene within a 20-meter radius.
