Azerbaijan Airlines plane crashes in Aktau, Kazakhstan PHOTO/VIDEO/UPDATED

A briefing with Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, who heads the government commission investigating the cause of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash has started in Aktau.

"Representatives from Embraer are expected to arrive in Aktau on December 27," Bozumbayev stated during the briefing, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

Later, in an interview with Tengrinews.kz, Bozumbayev emphasized that the investigation into the plane crash near Aktau is ongoing.

He noted that officials do not plan to respond to media claims regarding the cause of the plane crash, as they do not understand the sources of this information.

"We cannot confirm or deny any version. The investigation is ongoing," he said.

The deputy prime minister also mentioned that specialists from the CIS International Aviation Committee, as well as representatives from Embraer and Brazil's aviation authorities, will arrive in Kazakhstan on December 27.

"They will be included in the commission investigating the aviation incident, which is headed by our chief of the department of the Transport Ministry. According to the regulations, they will begin their work accordingly. At the same time, the police and prosecution are conducting forensic expertise. Therefore, it is too early to comment on anything at this stage. This is pure hype," he added.

He noted that law enforcement agencies from Russia and Azerbaijan will be allowed to participate in the investigation of the plane crash near Aktau.

"Law enforcement agencies from Russia and Azerbaijan will not be involved in the criminal investigation, but they will be allowed to participate in the investigation of the aviation incident," he said.

20:45

Transport Prosecutor of Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region Abilaybek Ordayev has said that two flight recorders were found and will be handed over to the Aviation Accidents and Incidents investigation Division for further examination.

“We have interrogated the injured people and ground service personnel. We are also identifying all eyewitnesses. The radio communications between the air traffic controllers and the flight crew have been seized. The investigation of the crash site, covering over 4,000 square meters, is nearing completion. The area is being secured by the police,” he noted, Caliber.Az reports, citing Kazakh media.

20:39

Kazakh Deputy Health Minister Timur Muratov provided an update on the condition of those injured in the recent plane crash during a briefing in Aktau.

 "Nine Russian citizens were evacuated to Moscow for further treatment via air ambulance on December 26. By the evening, 14 Azerbaijani citizens will also be evacuated back to their country. Currently, six patients are receiving treatment here — three Azerbaijanis and three Kyrgyz people. Four of them are in the intensive care unit, and the condition of one patient, who has been identified, remains extremely critical and unstable. Treatment is ongoing," he said, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

17:56

Fourteen Azerbaijani citizens, including one child, who were injured in the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane in Kazakhstan, are being transported from Aktau to Baku. 

This information was provided by an APA correspondent travelling to Kazakhstan, Caliber.Az reports.

The wounded passengers from the Baku-Grozny flight are being transferred by a special aircraft from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, accompanied by a medical team.

The Kazakh Emergencies Ministry confirmed that the bodies of 10 victims of the crash near Aktau have been identified. Among them are four Azerbaijani citizens, three Russians, and three Kazakhs.

The tragic crash occurred on December 25 when an Embraer 190 aircraft, operating flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, crashed while attempting an emergency landing near Aktau. The flight had 67 people on board, including 62 passengers and five crew members. Passengers included 37 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyzstani nationals.

The crash claimed the lives of 38 people, while 29 survived.

15:43

Igor Knyashkin, the pilot of the AZAL plane that tragically crashed near the Kazakh city of Aktau, was just two months away from retirement. 

His close friend, Nijat Bagiyev, shared these details with journalists, revealing that he had spoken with Kshnyakin just a day before the incident, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

"We met three days ago and had plans to meet again after Igor returned from this flight. He was a wonderful person — always positive and kind. He didn't talk much about his work, but he was due to retire in two months. However, he wasn't ready for that yet," Bagiyev recalled.

Bagiyev also mentioned that he had no information regarding when Knyashkin’s body would be returned to Baku.

Among the survivors of the crash was Subkhonkul Rakhimov, a passenger from Yekaterinburg, who shared his experience of the flight attendant’s extraordinary bravery during the emergency. In an interview with Russian media, Rakhimov praised the flight attendant for her courage and professionalism at a critical moment.

"The flight attendant, who was near the pilots, remained calm and continued to perform her duties despite the terrifying situation," Rakhimov said. "She stayed composed, giving instructions to us. I obeyed her orders and pressed myself against the backrest when she told me to. She spoke mainly in Azerbaijani, calming everyone around her. She did her job perfectly."

The tragic incident occurred on December 25 when an Embraer 190 aircraft, operating flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, crashed in Aktau while attempting an emergency landing. The flight was carrying 67 people — 62 passengers and five crew members. Among the passengers were 37 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyzstani nationals.

Sadly, 38 people lost their lives in the crash, while 29 survived.

Upon learning of the disaster, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who was en route to an informal summit in Saint Petersburg, Russia, immediately ordered his return to Baku to oversee the response efforts.

The international community quickly expressed condolences, with leaders and organizations around the world offering heartfelt messages of sympathy and solidarity with the families of the victims.

In a show of national grief, Azerbaijan declared December 26 a day of mourning to honor those who lost their lives in the tragedy.

12:44

The crew of the crashed Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft demonstrated exceptional bravery and professionalism in fulfilling their duties, according to AZAL President Samir Rzayev.

Speaking to journalists, Rzayev assured that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash, Caliber.Az reports referencing local media.

"The bodies of the victims will be returned to Azerbaijan within two days," he said, adding that the survivors are expected to be brought home in the afternoon.

Thanks to the crew's expertise, 29 passengers survived the tragedy, Rzayev emphasized. He also confirmed that the "black box" has been recovered, and its data will be analyzed in accordance with legal procedures to aid the investigation.

In a show of solidarity, flags were lowered at the UN office in Baku in honor of those who lost their lives in the crash. The UN office posted the footage on social media, expressing, "We stand in solidarity with the Azerbaijani people in this time of grief and remembrance."

12:05

The body of Hokuma Aliyeva, a stewardess aboard the Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 aircraft (registration 4K-AZ65) that crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, has been recovered. 

Alongside her, the bodies of the two pilots, Igor Kshnyakin and Alexander Kalyaninov, were also found.

These details were confirmed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan, per Caliber.Az.

The crash, which occurred on December 25, resulted in the tragic loss of 38 lives, including passengers and crew members. Two survivors, flight attendant Zulfugar Asadov and stewardess Aydan Rahimli, are currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.

It has been also confirmed that one of the victims of the tragic plane crash near Aktau is from Azerbaijan's Jalilabad district.

The victim has been identified as Goshgar Firudin oglu Sadigov, born in 1997, a resident of Mirzali village in Jalilabad. His identity was confirmed through DNA analysis conducted on samples provided by his father.

His body is expected to be returned to his family today.

Goshgar Sadigov was employed in Grozny at the time of the crash.

In a show of solidarity, Kazakhstan's Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, visited the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Astana to leave a message in the Book of Condolences. He expressed his deep sorrow for the loss of life, stating, "At this difficult moment, on behalf of the Government of Kazakhstan and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families, relatives, and friends of the victims. We stand with Azerbaijan in this tragic loss and offer our full support and assistance."

A minute of silence was observed in honour of the victims, reflecting the shared grief of both nations. Earlier, Prime Minister Bektenov had also expressed condolences to the families of the six Kazakh victims and ordered comprehensive support for the citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan affected by the crash.

The devastating crash occurred when the Embraer 190, flying from Baku to Grozny, went down near Aktau, claiming 38 lives out of the 67 people on board, which included 42 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyz nationals. The wreckage has been cleared, and ongoing recovery and investigation efforts continue.

In a national gesture of mourning, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev declared December 26 a day of mourning to honour the victims, offering support and strength to the bereaved families during this sorrowful time.

11:34

The Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan has assured that all necessary medical assistance is being provided to the victims of the tragic plane crash near Aktau on December 25. 

According to the latest updates, 29 people were affected by the crash, and 27 of them were admitted to Mangistau Regional Hospital with a range of injuries, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

The victims, mostly suffering from multiple injuries, were treated for various conditions such as closed cranial brain injuries, concussions, traumatic chest injuries, and shock. The ministry has confirmed that medical personnel are doing everything possible to stabilize the patients' conditions.

As of the morning of December 26, 11 patients were in the intensive care unit, 13 in the traumatology department, 2 in neurosurgery, and 1 in the surgical department. The conditions of the victims vary: two are in extremely critical condition, 11 are in serious condition, 14 are in moderate condition, and two are in satisfactory condition with no complaints.

According to the Ministry of Health's press service, eight of the patients in the intensive care unit are being supported by ventilators, medication, and sedation. All victims underwent necessary medical examinations upon arrival at the hospital. After their conditions were stabilized, they were transferred to specialized departments for further care.

To support the ongoing medical efforts, a plane from Astana was sent to Aktau, carrying a mobile medical team from the National Coordination Centre for Emergency Medicine. The team consists of two resuscitators, four traumatologists, a neurosurgeon, and a specialist in burn treatment. The ministry also confirmed that the hospital has adequate supplies of medicines and medical equipment to support the ongoing treatment of the injured.

Government response and ongoing investigation

Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister, Olzhas Bektenov, received a briefing on the operations of the government commission investigating the crash site. It was reported that rescue operations have concluded, with a total of 38 fatalities and 29 individuals hospitalized. All the injured have been examined, treated, and are receiving the necessary care.

In the wake of the crash, rescue teams from Kazakhstan, Russia, and Azerbaijan, including medical evacuation teams, have been involved in the operation. Relatives of the victims have been provided with accommodation, food, and transportation support. An emergency regime remains in place in the Tupkaragan district of Kazakhstan.

Prime Minister Bektenov has instructed measures to strengthen aviation safety protocols in Kazakhstan. He emphasized the importance of conducting an unscheduled audit of the technical condition of airports and aircraft and improving the monitoring of airline crews' qualifications and competence. Additionally, he called for a review of emergency response mechanisms to ensure a more coordinated effort in future incidents.

“This tragic event underscores the need for stricter flight safety measures. We must review all technical and operational aspects of aviation safety to prevent such incidents in the future,” Bektenov stressed.

Representatives from Brazilian and Embraer aviation authorities are expected to arrive in Aktau to assist with the investigation. The government is committed to drawing important lessons from this incident, including recommendations to improve aviation security across the country.

11:07

The 12 surviving passengers of the Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 plane that crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on December 25 will be flown back to Azerbaijan today, December 26. 

Seven survivors, whose condition is stable, will be transported on a regular flight, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The remaining five passengers, who have sustained moderate injuries, will be flown back via a special flight arranged by the Ministry of Emergency Situations, accompanied by a medical team to ensure their safe return.

In the aftermath of the crash, extensive efforts continue to clear the wreckage and address the consequences of the disaster. The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan has deployed a large-scale operation at the crash site, involving 306 personnel, 101 units of equipment, 2 aircraft, and 6 canine units. This coordinated rescue and recovery effort includes teams from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of National Guard, as well as emergency medical services and local authorities.

Yesterday, December 25, 29 people, including 3 minors, were rescued from the wreckage and hospitalized in Aktau’s medical institutions. The injured survivors are receiving care in various departments, including intensive care, traumatology, and neurosurgery. Psychological support is also being provided to the survivors and their families by the Disaster Medicine Centre and teams of psychologists at the scene.

The tragic crash claimed the lives of 38 people, with 6 of them being citizens of Kazakhstan and 3 of the victims being crew members of the flight. As of now, 7 of the deceased have been identified, and their bodies have been sent to the forensic medicine centre for examination. In addition to the human toll, the search efforts also yielded the recovery of the flight’s black box, which will be crucial in understanding the causes of the crash.

A government commission has arrived in Aktau to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. They are working alongside local and international experts to gather all the necessary information. In the meantime, the authorities are maintaining a 24/7 presence at the crash site to continue search and recovery efforts.

The tragedy has drawn widespread attention, and as part of the national response, Azerbaijan has declared December 26 a day of mourning to honour the victims. President Ilham Aliyev signed an official decree to mark the sombre occasion.

In a show of solidarity, a book of condolences has been opened at Azerbaijan’s diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry press service confirmed that this action was part of the efforts to allow the global community to express their sympathy and support. Aykhan Hajizada, the head of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry's press service, emphasized that the tragic event is being closely followed, and assistance is being provided to those affected.

10:14

Two of the victims in the heartbreaking Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Aktau on December 25 have been identified as siblings from the Gusar district of Azerbaijan.

The tragic victims, 22-year-old Ali Alimirzoyev and 19-year-old Khadija Alimirzoyeva hailed from the village of Sudur Oba in Gusar, Caliber.Az reports referring to local media.

Their untimely deaths were confirmed by the Executive Authority of Gusar district, deepening the sorrow felt by their community.

The crash occurred when an Embraer aircraft, flying from Baku to Grozny, tragically went down near Aktau. The plane, carrying 67 people — including 42 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyz — claimed 38 lives, with 29 survivors.

In response to the devastating loss, President Ilham Aliyev declared December 26 a national day of mourning to honour the victims and offer support to their families.

9:45

Following the tragic plane crash near Aktau, authorities have made progress in identifying the survivors. According to Kazakhstan’s media reports, two women who survived the crash have been identified by investigative agencies. One of them has been confirmed as a citizen of Azerbaijan, while the identity of the second woman remains unknown.

As of the latest updates, 27 survivors are being treated at the Mangalistau Hospital. Among them, 15 are citizens of Azerbaijan, 8 from the Russian Federation, 3 from the Kyrgyz Republic, and one individual remains unidentified.

The hospital has provided details about the condition of the survivors:

• 11 patients are being treated in the general intensive care unit, 13 in the trauma department, 2 in neurosurgery, and 1 in surgery.
• The survivors are suffering from various injuries, mostly including multiple trauma, closed head injuries, concussions, closed chest injuries, and traumatic shock of varying degrees.
• Of the 11 patients in the intensive care unit, three are in stable but critical condition, seven are in severe condition, and one patient is in extremely critical, unstable condition.

“Upon admission, all victims underwent necessary examinations. After stabilization, they were hospitalized according to their medical profiles. One victim required urgent surgery, including a laparotomy and suturing of a rupture in the mesentery of the large intestine, followed by drainage of the abdominal cavity,” reported the press service of the Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan.

In addition, high-level medical specialists from the National Coordinating Center for Emergency Medicine and leading republican centres have been dispatched to Aktau via air ambulance from Astana. Russia’s Ministry of Health and Ministry of Emergency Situations also sent a special flight with additional medical support. A team of Azerbaijani air ambulance personnel has also joined the rescue efforts.

09:39

In the wake of the tragic crash of an AZAL Embraer 190 aircraft in Kazakhstan, which resulted in multiple casualties, a book of condolences has been opened at the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Baku. 

The book will be available for signing today, December 26, from 11:00 to 17:00, at the embassy located at 14 Najafgulu Rafiyev Street. Caliber.Az reports via local media.

The Embraer 190 passenger plane, operating a flight from Baku to Grozny, crashed on December 25, approximately 3 kilometres from the city of Aktau. The incident has claimed numerous lives and left several others injured.

Evacuation of injured passengers

The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations has dispatched an Il-76 aircraft to transport nine injured Russian nationals, including a child, from Aktau to Moscow for medical treatment. According to the ministry’s press service, the special flight departed earlier today, ensuring that those in critical condition receive urgent care in the Russian capital.

"A special aircraft of the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations with Russian citizens injured in the crash of the passenger plane flying from Baku to Grozny has departed from Aktau airport. On board are nine people, including a child," a representative of the ministry told TASS.

09:11

A commission has been established to investigate the tragic crash of an Embraer 190 aircraft near Aktau, Kazakhstan, which resulted in significant loss of life. Specialists from Embraer have arrived in the country to assist with the investigation, according to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

Investigation underway

Experts from Kazakhstan’s Department for Transport Accidents and Incidents Investigation are currently on-site conducting fieldwork. Delegations from Azerbaijan’s State Civil Aviation Agency and Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) are also participating in the investigation, ensuring close cooperation with local aviation authorities.

Representatives from Brazil’s CENIPA (Center for Investigation and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents) and Embraer’s technical team have also joined the investigation to analyze the causes of the incident.

Day of mourning declared in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev declared December 26 a national day of mourning in memory of the victims. Flags have been lowered on government buildings and public squares, including the State Flag Square in Baku.

The crash involved an Embraer 190 aircraft operating AZAL Flight AHY8218 from Baku to Grozny, which crashed near Aktau on December 25, claiming the lives of 38 passengers and injuring 29 others.

Response from Azerbaijan

Following the crash, President Aliyev ordered a team of psychologists, doctors, and rescue personnel from Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations to be dispatched to Aktau aboard a Be-200 amphibious aircraft. The team has been providing medical and psychological support to survivors and assisting in search and recovery efforts at the crash site.

Details of the incident

The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan released the names of six Kazakh citizens who perished in the crash. Among the victims were residents of Mangystau Region, Aktau, and other parts of Kazakhstan.

AZAL confirmed that the captain of the ill-fated aircraft, Igor Kshnyakin, had logged over 15,000 flight hours, including 11,200 as a captain.

Ongoing efforts

The remains of passengers and crew are expected to be repatriated to Azerbaijan shortly, pending coordination with authorities in Kazakhstan. Survivors, some of whom remain in critical condition under the care of both Azerbaijani and Kazakh medical teams, will be transported home once cleared by doctors.

Investigators have retrieved the aircraft’s black boxes, which will undergo analysis as part of the inquiry. While Kazakhstan’s law enforcement agencies are leading the investigation, officials have welcomed international cooperation, including Azerbaijan’s involvement.

Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

21:22, 25.12.2024

Authorities in Kazakhstan are conducting an extensive investigation into the tragic plane crash that occurred in Aktau. The General Prosecutor’s Office of Azerbaijan is actively participating in efforts to identify the victims and support the families affected by the incident.

In a statement to Caliber.Az, the General Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that DNA samples are being collected from close relatives of the victims. These efforts are being carried out at the administrative building of the General Prosecutor's Office, located at 160 Suleyman Sani Akhundov Street, Binagadi District, Baku, near the “Darnagul” metro station.

Family members of the victims are urged to provide DNA samples at the designated address or at district and city prosecutor’s offices in their respective locations. For further information, families can contact the General Prosecutor’s Office via the Call Centre at “961,” the hotline “161,” or by phone at (012) 361 16 42.

Kazakhstan’s Minister of Transport, Marat Karabayev, provided an update during a press briefing. He confirmed that 67 individuals were on board the AZAL aircraft, including 62 passengers and five crew members. Tragically, 38 passengers lost their lives in the crash, while 29 survived.

Among the five crew members, three survived the incident, and two were killed. The authorities are working to provide support to the survivors and families of the deceased.

Further updates are expected as investigations progress and more details are uncovered about the cause of the crash.

20:56

A search team has successfully located the black box of the Embraer 190 aircraft that crashed near Aktau on December 25, 2024.

The announcement was made by Timur Suleimenov, chief transport prosecutor of Kazakhstan during a briefing in Aktau, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, Caliber.Az reports per Kazakh media.

The Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) aircraft, identified by its registration number 4K-AZ65, was manufactured in 2013. The plane, which had a total of 9,949 landings and a cumulative flight time of 15,257.22 hours, was recently subjected to a full technical inspection on October 18, 2024. Since then, the aircraft had flown for 671 hours before the accident occurred.

AZAL confirmed that the aircraft's serial number is 19000630 and provided additional details regarding the flight crew. The plane was piloted by Captain Igor Kshnyakin, who had an extensive flight record, totaling over 15,000 flight hours, with approximately 11,200 hours as a captain.

19:50

Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, currently in Aktau, provided new details about the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) passenger plane.

Bozumbayev confirmed that 38 people have been reported dead, Caliber.Az reports citing Kazakh media.

He stated that the bodies, which are in poor condition and mostly burnt, have all been collected and are now at the morgue for identification.

Additionally, Bozumbayev revealed that 29 individuals, including two children, were injured in the incident. Of the injured, 11 are in stable but serious condition, while the rest are suffering from medium severity injuries. All the injured have been transferred to local hospitals for treatment.

19:39

Another video has emerged from the crash site of the AZAL plane.

19:25

Video footage has surfaced showing an Embraer 190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines operating flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, making an emergency landing approximately 3 kilometres from the city of Aktau.

 

18:27

In response to the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane near Aktau, Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Health and TƏBİB (Management Union of Medical Territorial Units) have deployed an ambulance team on standby at the airport. 

The crash, which occurred on the morning of December 25, took place just three kilometres from Aktau.

The Ministry of Health also shared with local media that a support group, formed by volunteers from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s Regional Development Public Association, is actively assisting in the response efforts, per Caliber.Az.

"A State Commission, established by an order from Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, is investigating the condition of those injured in the crash. The commission is also exploring the possibility of transporting the survivors back to Azerbaijan. Further updates will be provided to the public as more information becomes available," the statement reads.

17:39

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has expressed condolences in connection with the crash of an Embraer 190 aircraft on December 25, which occurred three kilometres from Kazakhstan's Aktau.

In a statement, the airline shared its profound grief, saying: "Today is a tragic day for AZAL. We extend our deepest condolences with profound sorrow to the families and loved ones of the passengers and crew members who lost their lives in the crash of the Embraer-190 aircraft near the city of Aktau. We pray for God's mercy upon them. Their pain is our pain. We wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

17:03

In a meeting convened to discuss the tragic plane crash near Aktau, President Ilham Aliyev provided insights into the incident, explaining that the AZAL airline plane, which was en route from Baku to Grozny, altered its course due to deteriorating weather conditions. 

The aircraft then attempted an emergency landing at Aktau Airport, where it ultimately crashed during the landing process, Caliber.Az reports citing local media.

"There are videos of the plane crash available in the media and on social networks, and everyone can watch them. However, the reasons for the crash are not yet known to us. There are various theories, but I believe it is premature to discuss them. The matter must be thoroughly investigated," President Aliyev stated.

The crash occurred on December 25, when an Embraer 190 aircraft, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) on flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, went down near Aktau.

The aircraft was carrying 67 people in total, including 62 passengers and 5 crew members, according to a statement from AZAL’s press office. Among the passengers, there were 37 nationals from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan.

The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of condolences from world leaders, and in honour of the victims, President Aliyev declared December 26 a national day of mourning in Azerbaijan.

15:16

A special delegation from Azerbaijan, led by Azerbaijan's Minister for Emergency Situations Kemaleddin Heydarov, has arrived in Aktau to investigate the tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flight J2-8243, which went down near Aktau on December 25.

Akim of the region, Nurdaulet Kilybay, stated that the injured citizens are being provided with necessary medical assistance, Caliber.Az reports citing Kazakh media.

In a powerful show of solidarity, residents of Astana have gathered outside the Azerbaijani Embassy to lay flowers in memory of those who lost their lives in the crash.

The flight, en route from Baku to Grozny, was carrying 62 passengers and 5 crew members. Among the passengers were 37 people from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, 6 from Kazakhstan, and 3 from Kyrgyzstan. The Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan confirmed that 25 survivors were rescued from the wreckage, including two children, who were immediately taken to local hospitals for urgent treatment.

In the aftermath of the disaster, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev made the decision to cut short his participation in an informal CIS summit in Russia and return to Baku to oversee the response efforts. Expressing his condolences to the victims’ families, President Aliyev pledged full support for those affected by the tragedy.

14:39

New images have emerged following the tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flight No. J2-8243, which occurred just 3 kilometres outside of Aktau. 

The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Kazakhstan has released fresh footage from the crash site, providing a clearer view of the aftermath.

According to the latest information from AZAL’s press service, the plane was carrying 62 passengers at the time of the crash. Among them were 37 citizens from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, 6 from Kazakhstan, and 3 from Kyrgyzstan.

As investigators continue to probe the cause of the disaster, efforts are now focused on providing urgent assistance to the survivors and offering support to their families during this difficult time.

14:06

The Mangistau Region Health Department has released updated information regarding the Baku-Grozny flight No. J2-8243 crash that occurred on the morning of December 25, just 3 kilometres from Aktau. 

The Embraer 190 aircraft, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, tragically went down, prompting an immediate and coordinated response from emergency services.

As of the latest update, a total of 29 individuals were injured in the crash. 27 of them were taken to the Mangistau Regional Hospital (MOB), where triage efforts are underway at the reception centre, Caliber.Az reports citing Kazakh media.

Among the injured, 11 people are in critical condition and have been admitted to the intensive care unit. Two children, aged 11 and 16, are being prepared for surgery after sustaining significant injuries.

The Department confirmed that four bodies were found at the crash site. The detailed list of victims and survivors is still being compiled, with further investigations taking place at the scene.

Among the injured are two children, identified as:

1. Arsbaefa Mariyam (born August 13, 2013) – Preliminary diagnosis includes traumatic brain injury, concussion, contusions and abrasions of the face, nose, pelvis, and a suspected pelvic bone fracture.

2. Dzherova Salihat Khazrilovna (born January 22, 2008) – Preliminary diagnosis includes traumatic brain injury, concussion, an open fracture of the left tibia with displacement, and 1-2 degree traumatic shock.

The authorities also report that intensive care is required for 10 of the injured. The hospital has activated emergency medical teams to provide critical care, and additional specialists are on standby for surgery.

At present, the crash site investigation has been temporarily suspended as rescue teams work to secure the area. The tragic accident involved passengers from multiple countries, and authorities are continuing their efforts to provide aid, identify the victims, and determine the cause of the crash.

As of now, it is known that there were 62 passengers on board, with the majority from Azerbaijan, alongside citizens from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. The final list of passengers and the full extent of the damage is still under review.

The plane’s tragic crash has left families and authorities in shock, and the investigation continues as officials work to uncover the cause behind this heartbreaking incident.

13:39

A criminal case has been initiated regarding the crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) plane in Aktau, Kazakhstan.

The criminal case has been initiated under Articles 262.3 ("Violation of traffic safety rules and rules for the operation of railway, water, or air transport, resulting in the accidental death of two or more persons") and 314.3 ("Negligence, i.e., failure or improper performance of duties by an official due to dishonest or careless attitude towards service, resulting in the accidental death of two or more persons") of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports via the General Prosecutor's Office of Azerbaijan.

The criminal case was opened under the instructions of the Prosecutor General of Azerbaijan, Kamran Aliyev.

The investigation has been entrusted to the Investigative Department of the General Prosecutor's Office.

A team of investigators, led by Deputy Prosecutor General Elmar Jamalov, has been dispatched to Kazakhstan. In accordance with international legal assistance, a request for investigative actions in Aktau has been submitted to the General Prosecutor's Office of Kazakhstan.

Various measures are being taken jointly with different government bodies to establish the causes of the crash.

13:13

Victims of the plane crash near Aktau are receiving full medical assistance, the Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan reported.

According to the ministry, preliminary operational data indicates that 28 people have been taken to medical facilities, with their conditions ranging from mild to severe.

All necessary medical assistance is being provided in hospitals across the region. Twenty-three emergency medical teams have been mobilized to the scene.

Today, an air ambulance from Astana is flying to Aktau, with a team of specialists, including surgeons and traumatologists, onboard.

A hotline has been set up for the families of the passengers involved in the crash to receive necessary information.

As reported by Caliber.Az, the press service of AZAL stated that the following numbers can be contacted: (+994) 12 504-82-80, (+994) 12 504-82-02, (+994) 12 504-82-03.

AZAL has provided a full list of all passengers on flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, which crashed this morning near Aktau.

Information about the victims of the crash near Aktau of the Azerbaijan-Baku-Grozny flight has been updated by the Ministry of Health of the Mangystau region, as reported by the Kazinform agency.

The Ministry of Health confirmed the discovery of 4 bodies at the scene of the crash.

According to the head of the Ministry, B. Izbasarov, on December 25, 2024, at 10:58, a Category 1 emergency call was received. Twenty-two emergency teams and six teams from the Disaster Medicine Center (DMC) were sent.

At the moment, 26 injured individuals have been taken to the hospital, where triage is being conducted in the emergency room. Of the 24 admitted, 7 in critical condition are being transferred to intensive care.

12:52

Newly updated information has emerged following the devastating crash of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flight No. J2-8243, which occurred just 3 kilometres from Aktau. 

The Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, went down, sparking an immediate response from local authorities.

Recent information from AZAL press service confirms that the plane was carrying 62 passengers, with 37 from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, 6 from Kazakhstan, and 3 from Kyrgyzstan, Caliber.Az reports.

The full list of passengers is being compiled, with AZAL's press service promising to release it shortly.

As investigators continue their work, the focus shifts to providing aid and support to the survivors and their families.

12:30

A devastating crash occurred just 3 kilometres from Aktau as an Embraer 190 aircraft, Azerbaijan Airlines flight No. J2-8243, went down, sparking an urgent response from authorities.

In the aftermath of the crash, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev immediately launched a special commission to investigate the tragedy, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

The commission, headed by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev, is already en route to the crash site in Aktau. Tokayev has also ordered the swift deployment of medical teams from Astana to provide critical assistance to those affected by the disaster.

The plane, en route from Baku to Grozny, was carrying a mix of passengers from multiple countries, including 37 from Azerbaijan, 16 from Russia, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan.

12:16

An Embraer 190 aircraft from Azerbaijan Airlines, operating Baku-Grozny flight No. J2-8243, crashed just 3 kilometres from Aktau, Kazakhstan, sending shockwaves through the region. 

The crash has left 25 survivors, with 12 of them urgently hospitalized, as local authorities rushed to the scene.

Kazakhstan's Health Minister, Akmaral Alnazarova, was quick to provide initial updates on the crash, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

In a statement, she confirmed that 14 ambulance crews were dispatched immediately, and an air ambulance aircraft was also on its way. 

“We have now prepared air ambulance flights to send specialists — traumatologists, surgeons, and others — to the site to provide immediate medical assistance and transport the injured if necessary,” Alnazarova said.

According to the Health Department of Kazakhstan’s Mangistau region, preliminary reports suggest that 25 people survived the crash, although most sustained severe injuries. Unfortunately, the remaining passengers are believed to have perished in the incident.

Among those aboard the plane were 37 Azerbaijan nationals, 16 Russian citizens, six from Kazakhstan, and three from Kyrgyzstan. Emergency personnel, including 52 members of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations and 11 units of equipment, have arrived at the crash site to assist in the recovery operation.

As investigations continue, authorities are working to confirm the exact cause of the crash and provide further details on the condition of the survivors.

11:48

An Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, has crashed in Aktau, Kazakhstan. 

A total of 67 people were onboard the Azerbaijan Airlines flight, including 62 passengers and 5 crew members, according to a statement from AZAL’s press service. Notably, there were no children among the passengers, Caliber.Az reports.

The authorities are currently working to provide detailed information about the victims, with reports confirming that there are survivors, who are receiving immediate medical care.

The Kazakhstani authorities are taking prompt action and are in communication with the relevant Azerbaijani agencies to coordinate the response and investigation. Further updates are expected soon.

11:24

An Embraer 190 aircraft of Azerbaijan Airlines, operating flight Baku-Grozny No. J2-8243, made an emergency landing 3 kilometers from the city of Aktau, Caliber.Az reports via the press service of AZAL.

According to preliminary information, the incident was caused by a bird strike.

"We are heading to the crash site," Aykhan Suleymanli, the General Consul of Azerbaijan in Aktau, told local media.

He added, "At the moment, we cannot provide any details. Our staff is already there, and I am on my way to the site. We cannot say anything further for now."

The situation is still developing, with local authorities and emergency services actively involved in the response.

 

11:18

An Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, has crashed in Aktau, Kazakhstan. 

Local media reports indicate that the plane requested an emergency landing prior to the crash. Preliminary information suggests the aircraft sent an emergency signal while flying over the Caspian Sea, Caliber.Az reports.

Footage of the incident has emerged on social media, showing the aftermath of the crash. Emergency services are on the scene, and rescue operations are underway. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the crash, and details remain scarce at this time.

According to preliminary reports, the Azerbaijan Airlines aircraft earlier sent an emergency signal while flying over the Caspian Sea.

---

Official information from AZAL is expected.

To be updated