Aviation Disaster in Kazakhstan: 38 Killed in Azerbaijan Airlines Crash
An Azerbaijani airliner with 67 people onboard crashed near the Kazakhstani city of Aktau on Wednesday, killing 38 people and leaving 29 survivors.
Crash Details
According to Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbaev, the Embraer 190 was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan to Grozny, Russia when it was diverted and attempted an emergency landing 3 kilometers from Aktau. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated that the plane changed its course due to worsening weather conditions.
Investigation
Russia’s civil aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, reported that preliminary information showed the pilots diverted to Aktau after a bird strike led to an emergency on board. Azerbaijan Airlines said it would keep members of the public updated and changed its social media banners to solid black. The company also suspended flights between Baku and Grozny, as well as between Baku and Makhachkala in Russia’s North Caucasus, until the investigation is concluded.
Survivors and Victims
According to Kazakh officials, those aboard the plane included 42 Azerbaijani citizens, 16 Russian nationals, six Kazakhs, and three Kyrgyzstan nationals. Some of the survivors were seen dragging fellow passengers away from the wreckage.
Reactions
Aliyev expressed his condolences to the families of the victims, stating, "It is with deep sadness that I express my condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to those injured." Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to Aliyev on the phone and expressed his condolences, and Russia’s Emergency Ministry sent a plane to Kazakhstan to assist with the aftermath of the crash.
Investigations and Response
Azerbaijan Airlines said it is "ready to assist all relevant authorities" in the investigation. Kazakhstani, Azerbaijani, and Russian authorities are investigating the crash. An official delegation of Azerbaijan’s emergency situations minister, the deputy general prosecutor, and the vice president of Azerbaijan Airlines were sent to Aktau to conduct an on-site investigation.
Conclusion
The crash has sent shockwaves across the region, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.
FAQs
Q: What was the cause of the crash?
A: Preliminary information suggests a bird strike led to an emergency on board.
Q: How many people were on board?
A: There were 67 people on board, including passengers and crew.
Q: How many people survived?
A: 29 people survived the crash.
Q: What is the current status of the investigation?
A: An official investigation is underway, led by Kazakhstani, Azerbaijani, and Russian authorities.
Q: What support is being provided to the victims’ families?
A: The governments of Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Russia, as well as Azerbaijan Airlines, are providing support to the victims’ families, including financial assistance and counseling services.
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