An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet crashed on Wednesday over western Kazakhstan, resulting in the tragic loss of 38 of the 67 people onboard. The Embraer 190 aircraft, which was scheduled to fly from the Azerbaijani capital Baku to Grozny, Chechnya, deviated from its intended route, crossing the Caspian Sea before going down near the city of Aktau, which is known as an oil and gas hub on the eastern shore of the sea.
According to Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, the situation from the crash is grim: "The situation is not very good, 38 dead," he stated, as reported by Russia's Interfax news agency. Official reports confirm the presence of 67 individuals onboard, comprising 62 passengers and five crew members. The Kazakh transport ministry indicated the nationalities of those onboard — 37 were from Azerbaijan, six from Kazakhstan, three from Kyrgyzstan, and 16 from Russia.
The unfortunate crash occurred approximately three kilometers away from Aktau, downing the plane as it attempted what officials described as an emergency landing. Initially, Azerbaijan Airlines documented the flight’s erratic behavior, articulately showing its deviation from the Baku-Grozny route. It was later revealed the plane had circled preceding the crash location.
Kazakh emergency response teams swiftly engaged, extinguishing the fuel fire ignited during the crash. Reports noted 29 survivors, including three children, who were hospitalized post-incident. Emergency responders, numbering around 150 personnel, worked diligently at the crash site, providing immediate care and support.
Hours following the tragic incident, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev pronounced Thursday as a national day of mourning. He also abandoned his planned visit to Russia for discussions with leaders from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Expressing his sorrow via social media, Aliyev remarked, "I extend my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash... and wish a speedy recovery to the injured." His words aimed to comfort, as the nation grappled with the disaster’s impact.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also conveyed his condolences to Aliyev, indicating the depth of international sympathy following this calamity. Putin noted the mobilization of Russian emergency services to assist with medical personnel dispatched to Aktau, highlighting the collaborative efforts between nations during crises.
Adding her heartfelt sentiments, Azerbaijan's first vice president and the first lady, Mehriban Aliyeva, lamented the tragic losses via Instagram, stating, "I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims." Meanwhile, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov expressed his sympathy as well, reaching out on Telegram to offer his condolences to the victims' relatives.
Among those on site were witnesses, including local resident Elmira, who described heart-wrenching scenes. She recounted rushing to aid survivors, noting, "They were covered in blood. They were crying. They were calling for help." Elmira recalled rescuing young individuals who were visibly traumatized, driven by the desperate pleas of one girl who cried for her mother left behind. Such strong narratives represent the broader emotional aftermath of the crash.
Kazakhstan has initiated investigations aimed at unraveling the circumstances surrounding the crash. Azerbaijan Airlines indicated their aircraft made contact with what was initially reported as birds, but this claim was retracted, as the investigation turned attention to more pressing matters. The office of the prosecutor general asserted, "We cannot disclose any investigation results at this time. All possible scenarios are being examined, and the necessary expert analyses are underway," emphasizing the depth and seriousness of the inquiry.
Despite the horrific turn of events, the response among local and international authorities has demonstrated compassion and support for the victims' families and survivors. The quick actions of emergency services and the solidarity shared between nations project hope for those directly affected.
This incident stands as another sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent to air travel, arousing apprehension and questions as investigations proceed. With every detail examined, it is hoped clarity will emerge, providing closure to those grieving.
