"The information about a radio beacon signal, registered by rescue serviced, has not proven true during supplementary exploration of the suspected location of the Su-27 emergency buoy," the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement, adding that the search continues.
According to preliminary information, the Su-27 crashed in the Black Sea on Wednesday during a scheduled flight.
The search for the pilot is complicated by tough weather conditions. The Federal Agency for Maritime and River Transportation said earlier in the day that a radio beacon signal was registered in the Black Sea, bringing hope that the pilot may be there.