On December 27, 2024, a tragic incident occurred as an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Baku. The jet was reportedly headed to Istanbul and was carrying 120 passengers. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the aircraft experienced severe turbulence before losing altitude rapidly.
Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev expressed deep condolences for the loss, noting in a statement, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families. This disaster is a tragic reminder of the importance of air safety regulations.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin reached out to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to express his sorrow over the incident. Putin stated, “I apologize for the tragic loss of life that occurred. We stand ready to assist in any investigations or actions deemed necessary by your government. Our nations share a commitment to ensuring aviation safety.”
Initial reports suggest that the Russian-made aircraft might have experienced a technical failure which led to its troubling descent. The investigation is still ongoing, with both Azerbaijan’s civil aviation authority and international aviation experts expected to examine the wreckage.
Air traffic control records show that the plane had reported engine issues before its last communication. Passengers on board included a mix of local and international travelers, which adds to the global concerns regarding airline safety, particularly for airlines operating older aircraft models.
The plane crash has sparked debate over the safety standards of Azerbaijan Airlines and the aircraft’s maintenance records. The government has pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation and provide updates as they arise. The nation is in mourning, with flags at half-mast to honor those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking event.
