In a tragic incident, an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. The Embraer 190 aircraft, which was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, was forced to make an emergency landing due to dense fog at Grozny’s airport.
The plane, carrying 67 passengers and five crew members, crashed approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Aktau. Disturbing video footage shows the aircraft erupting into flames upon impact, sending thick black smoke billowing into the air. Emergency responders were quick to extinguish the fire and rushed survivors to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care.
According to Kazakh authorities, at least 30 people are feared dead, while 32 have survived the crash. The survivors are receiving medical treatment, and the authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the crash may have been caused by a bird strike, which led to the emergency landing.
Both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have expressed their condolences and are working together to determine the exact cause of the accident. The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, and many are mourning the loss of lives.
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those affected by this tragedy. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.