Passenger turns hero: Azerbaijani rescues dozens from burning aircraft PHOTO

An Azerbaijani man demonstrated extraordinary bravery, rescuing passengers aboard a Russian airliner that caught fire after landing in Antalya, Türkiye. 

The incident, which occurred on November 24, involved an Azimut Airlines Sukhoi Superjet 100 arriving from Sochi, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

Sultan Sultanov, an Azerbaijani resident of Krasnodar, was a passenger on the ill-fated flight. When the fire erupted, chaos ensued, with one young stewardess overcome by panic and unable to open the emergency exit. Sultanov stepped in, quickly assisting in opening the door and helping the cabin crew evacuate passengers, including children and adults, from the burning aircraft.

His swift actions were praised as an act of true heroism. Dmitry Gusev, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Control Committee, lauded Sultanov’s bravery, stating, “An example of real courage, of how an ordinary person can become a hero and save lives at the risk of their own. We appealed to the Governor of the Krasnodar region, Veniamin Kondratyev, with a proposal to honour Sultan's deed. On behalf of the State Duma, we will send him a letter to express respect and gratitude for his brave deed. With warmest regards!”

The Azimut Airlines aircraft reportedly encountered wind shear during landing, resulting in what the airline described as a “hard landing” at Antalya Airport. This led to the ignition of the aircraft, which was carrying 95 people. Miraculously, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated without injuries, thanks in part to Sultanov’s quick thinking and decisive actions.

In the aftermath, the Russian Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case under charges of violating safety regulations for air transport movement and operation.

By Tamilla Hasanova