IATA urges transparent investigation into Azerbaijan Airlines flight crash

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has issued a statement calling for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the tragic crash of Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 on 25 December 2024.

The association stressed that the investigation should be conducted in accordance with Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention, which mandates the publication of an interim report within 30 days of the incident, Caliber.Az reports.

“Our deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of those who have perished. Out of respect for the 38 people who lost their lives and to those who survived, we must find out why this catastrophe happened and take action to ensure there is never a repeat,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

IATA’s statement follows reports from both the Russian and Azerbaijani governments, confirming that the crash occurred in Russian airspace near military operations. Walsh highlighted the importance of a thorough investigation, given the serious implications of the crash’s proximity to military conflict zones.

“Civil aircraft must never be the intended or accidental target of military operations. The strong potential that Azerbaijan Airlines flight 8243 could have been the victim of military operations, as indicated by several governments including Russia and Azerbaijan, places the highest priority on conducting a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation. The world eagerly awaits the required publication of the interim report within 30 days, in line with international obligations agreed in the Chicago Convention. And should the conclusion be that this tragedy was the responsibility of combatants, the perpetrators must be held accountable and brought to justice,” said Walsh.

IATA’s call for transparency comes amid escalating global conflicts. In October 2024, the organisation reminded the United Nations Security Council of states' explicit obligations to ensure the safety of aviation and critical infrastructure, even during times of conflict. IATA highlighted Article 48 of the Protocol to the Geneva Conventions, which prohibits combatants from targeting civilian objects, as well as the Chicago Convention’s provisions requiring states to protect civil aircraft and passengers and to communicate any activities that might pose a risk to civil aviation.

To further these aims, IATA voiced strong support for the work of the Safe Skies Consultative Committee, which focuses on reducing risks in conflict zones through enhanced information sharing, risk assessments, and guidance for both states and operators.

By Vugar Khalilov