An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane en route from Baku to Grozny, Russia, crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on Wednesday, resulting in a significant loss of life. The Embraer 190 aircraft was carrying 67 individuals, including 62 passengers and five crew members.
What we know so far:
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergencies reported that 27 people survived the crash, among them three children, who were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The remaining 40 occupants are feared dead.
The flight was diverted to Aktau due to dense fog in Grozny. Preliminary information suggests that a collision with a flock of birds may have caused a steering failure, leading to the crash. Eyewitnesses described the aircraft descending rapidly before erupting into flames upon impact. Emergency responders arrived promptly, rescuing survivors from the burning wreckage.
Azerbaijan Airlines has confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. The airline expressed condolences to the families of the victims and pledged full cooperation with authorities during the investigation.
About Azerbaijan Airlines
This tragedy marks a significant loss for Azerbaijan Airlines, which has experienced several accidents in its history, including a fatal crash in 2005 involving an Antonov An-140 aircraft near Baku.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to recover the remains of the deceased and provide support to the survivors and families affected by this devastating event.
Travel Radar will continue to bring you the latest on this developing story.
