A devastating plane crash occurred on Wednesday near the Kazakh city of Aktau, with a flight traveling from Azerbaijan to southern Russia. The flight, Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, was en route from Baku to Grozny, Russia, with 67 people on board. The aircraft made an emergency landing about 3 kilometers from Aktau, where it crashed and burst into flames. Authorities have confirmed that at least 28 survivors were found, including two children, all of whom were promptly taken to local hospitals for treatment.
The crash took place after the plane encountered difficulties in the air. The Ministry of Emergency Situations in Kazakhstan reported that when rescue teams arrived at the scene, they found the aircraft engulfed in flames. The emergency teams quickly extinguished the fire, while videos from the crash site showed the plane circling erratically before hitting the ground. Disturbing footage captured passengers, bloodied and in distress, emerging from the wreckage shortly after the crash.
Devastating Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash Near Aktau Leaves 28 Survivors, Investigation Underway
Preliminary reports from Russian aviation officials indicated that a bird strike may have caused the incident, with the pilot attempting an emergency landing following the strike. There were 62 passengers and 5 crew members aboard the flight. Early information provided by Kazakhstan’s transport ministry revealed that the passengers included citizens from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. The investigation into the cause of the crash is still ongoing, and more details will be released as they become available.
In response to the crash, the Kazakh government has established a commission to thoroughly investigate the incident. The commission was directed to fly to the site immediately to examine the circumstances of the crash and ensure a comprehensive inquiry. Additionally, the commission has been instructed to offer priority assistance to the families of those who died or were injured. Kazakhstan also announced its intent to cooperate closely with Azerbaijan in the investigation process.
As the investigation unfolds, both countries are focused on determining the exact cause of the crash and supporting the survivors and the families of the victims. While the situation is still developing, the swift actions of emergency responders and the ongoing investigation offer hope that answers will soon be provided. The crash has left many questions unanswered, and authorities are committed to providing transparency and aid to those affected.
