AZAL flight returns to Baku after airspace closure over Makhachkala MAP

An Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flight en route Baku-Mineralnye Vody was forced to return to Baku after receiving a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) message regarding the closure of airspace over Makhachkala, in Dagestan, Russia.

The flight, designated J2-8717, was mid-route when the captain made the decision to turn around and return to Baku, remaining within Azerbaijan's airspace for the duration of the journey, AZAL told .

The flight, designated J2-8717, was mid-route when the captain made the decision to turn around and return to Baku, remaining within Azerbaijan's airspace for the duration of the journey, AZAL  told Caliber.Az.

The aircraft safely landed in the Azerbaijani capital at 10:13. 

AZAL's press service confirmed the incident and assured that full details regarding future flights to Russia would be provided soon. The airline stated that it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the situation develops.

By Vafa Guliyeva