A passenger plane flying from Baku, Azerbaijan to Grozny, Russia crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan on Wednesday, with initial reports indicating significant casualties. The Embraer 190 aircraft, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, was carrying 62 passengers and five crew members when it was forced to make an emergency landing approximately three kilometers from the city, following serious difficulties as it deviated from its flight path due to fog.
According to Kazakhstan's emergencies ministry, 27 people survived the crash, with emergency crews swiftly working to extinguish flames emanated from the wreckage. Health officials reported 22 of the survivors were hospitalized. Photos from the crash site reveal the severely damaged tail of the aircraft and show emergency responders at work.
The flight, numbered J2-8243, was en route to Grozny when the pilot was forced to change course, reportedly due to heavy fog. Initial investigations indicated the plane may have suffered from complications after colliding with birds shortly before the crash. The Russian aviation watchdog suggested the divergence from the planned route was prompted by low visibility, forcing the pilot to seek landing at Aktau airport.
Local media shared updates, noting the nationality mix of the passengers: 37 Azerbaijani, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakh citizens, and 3 Kyrgyz citizens were onboard during the tragic incident. Notably, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov expressed deep concerns over the passengers' wellbeing, stating, "Those being treated in hospital are in extremely serious condition," as he offered prayers for their recovery.
The Kazakh transport ministry emphasized the continuing inquiry, as authorities examine different scenarios to ascertain the crash's true cause. Eyewitness accounts and unverified images from the crash scene depict chaotic moments post-impact, with survivors struggling to escape the damaged fuselage.
While the investigation is underway, Azerbaijan Airlines confirmed the incident and stated they would share updated information as it becomes available. The need for thorough assessments is underscored as officials analyze both technical factors and weather conditions leading to the plane's emergency landing.
This incident has sent shockwaves throughout the region, rekindling discussions on aviation safety, particularly concerning flights traversing unpredictable weather patterns. Ongoing coverage will closely follow the developments surrounding the inquiry and those impacted by the crash.
