Azerbaijan Airlines plane crashes: A tragic plane crash involving an Azerbaijan Airlines flight near Aktau, Kazakhstan, claimed the lives of 38 people on December 25. The Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, was carrying 67 passengers and crew. Officials reported that 29 individuals survived the crash, some with injuries.
Survivors Recall Horror
A passenger onboard recorded dramatic moments before and after the crash, sharing footage that has since gone viral. The video shows passengers praying as the emergency unfolded, with oxygen masks dangling from the cabin’s ceiling. Post-crash scenes depict a bleeding passenger and another trying to exit the severely damaged aircraft.
Despite its widespread circulation, the authenticity of the footage remains unverified. Sharing the video, Daily Mail described it as “footage filmed by a passenger showing people praying and oxygen masks lowered, with visible cabin damage minutes before the crash.” The video has sparked an outpouring of reactions on social media.
One user commented, “The Almighty accepted his prayer; he survived, gave an interview, and moves independently.” Another added, “May the souls of those who passed rest in peace, and may the survivors find strength to heal.” Others expressed discomfort with the visuals, describing them as “horrific and deeply saddening.”
Crash Details and Response
According to Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbaev of Kazakhstan, the plane attempted an emergency landing about three kilometres (1.8 miles) from Aktau Airport after being diverted due to adverse weather conditions.
Speaking at a news conference, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that it was too early to determine the cause of the crash. “Preliminary information indicates the plane changed course between Baku and Grozny due to worsening weather and headed to Aktau, where it crashed during landing,” Aliyev stated.
Russia’s civil aviation authority, Rosaviatsia, suggested that a bird strike might have caused an onboard emergency, leading to the diversion and subsequent crash.
Investigation Underway
Authorities in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are jointly investigating the incident. Meanwhile, the tragedy has brought widespread grief and condolences, with many calling for enhanced safety measures in aviation to prevent future disasters.
This devastating accident highlights the risks inherent in air travel and the need for vigilance in ensuring passenger safety.
