Did a bird strike cause Azerbaijan airlines crash? Russian officials weigh in
An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet crashed near Aktau, western Kazakhstan, on Wednesday. The Embraer 190, carrying 67 people, veered off its scheduled route before plunging into the Caspian Sea’s opposite shore. Kazakh media reported an oxygen tank explosion inside the plane and passengers falling unconscious before the crash.
The flight, J2-8243, was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia. It unexpectedly diverted hundreds of miles, triggering speculation about a bird strike as the cause. Russia’s aviation watchdog highlighted the possibility of a bird-related emergency, according to Reuters.
Rescue teams confirmed 32 survivors, but fears remain for the 38 others presumed dead. Among those onboard were 62 passengers and five crew members. Azerbaijan Airlines stated the plane made an emergency landing about three kilometers (1.9 miles) from Aktau, as reported by the Kazakh transport ministry.
President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan cut short his visit to Russia and declared Thursday a day of national mourning. The crash occurred while he was attending an informal summit of the Commonwealth of Independent States.
The flight path recorded by FlightRadar revealed the plane crossing the Caspian Sea off its regular course before circling over the crash site. Authorities in Kazakhstan announced an investigation to determine the cause.
This tragedy has cast a shadow over the nation, raising questions about aviation safety and emergency preparedness. More details are expected as investigations proceed.
