Azerbaijani experts to supervise black box analysis in Brazil for AZAL plane crash

Considering the objective and principled position of the Republic of Azerbaijan, it has been decided to send the black boxes from the Embraer 190 passenger plane, owned by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), which crashed near Aktau, to the Brazilian Aeronautical Accidents Investigation and Prevention Center (CENIPA).

The process of delivering and analyzing the black boxes at CENIPA will be carried out with the direct involvement and supervision of Azerbaijani experts, Trend reports, citing Azerbaijan's Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.

Additionally, international experts, specializing in this field and engaged by Azerbaijan, will also participate in the process. This approach aims to ensure that the investigation of the incident is conducted fully transparently and in accordance with international standards.

"This step will also help avoid any doubts about the objectivity of the aviation accident investigations and increase trust in the results for the international community. The direct involvement of Azerbaijani experts and the participation of international experts will further enhance the completeness and accuracy of the investigation.

CENIPA has high technical capabilities in investigating air crashes. The center is equipped with modern equipment and has internationally certified laboratories for data decoding," the ministry emphasized.

On December 25, 2024, an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) suffered a catastrophic failure while en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia. The flight, which was carrying 67 passengers and crew members, included nationals from several countries: 37 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyz nationals.

While flying through Russian airspace, the aircraft experienced severe technical and physical interference that caused the crew to lose control. Under intense pressure, the flight crew took immediate action, diverting the aircraft toward Aktau, Kazakhstan, to attempt an emergency landing.

Despite the challenging circumstances, the flight crew—consisting of the pilots and flight attendants—exhibited exceptional professionalism and composure, playing a critical role in minimizing the impact of the disaster. Their swift response helped reduce the potential loss of life, and thanks to their efforts, 29 individuals survived the crash. Unfortunately, 38 people lost their lives in the tragic accident. 

By Vugar Khalilov