Wed Dec 25 15:02:53 UTC 2024: ## Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crashes in Kazakhstan; Dozens Dead, Survivors Hospitalized

**Aktau, Kazakhstan –** An Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 passenger plane crashed near the Kazakh city of Aktau on Wednesday, resulting in a significant loss of life. Flight 8243, en route from Baku to Grozny, Chechnya, was forced to reroute due to fog in Grozny before the crash. Initial reports suggest a bird strike may have contributed to the incident.

The aircraft, carrying 62 passengers and five crew members representing several nationalities (including 37 Azerbaijanis, 16 Russians, 6 Kazakhs, and 3 Kyrgyz), crashed approximately 3 kilometers from Aktau. Graphic videos circulating on social media appear to show the plane impacting the ground and bursting into flames.

While the death toll remains uncertain, Kazakh authorities have confirmed at least 42 fatalities, with the number potentially higher. At least 28 survivors have been reported, many of whom were seated in the tail section of the aircraft. Fourteen survivors have been hospitalized, with five in critical condition. Tragically, all members of the flight crew are confirmed dead.

Rescue teams responded swiftly to the crash site, extinguishing the fire and assisting survivors. Russian President Vladimir Putin offered condolences to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya, also expressed his condolences and concern for the seriously injured survivors.

FlightRadar24 reported potential “strong GPS jamming” affecting the aircraft’s data transmission prior to the crash. While investigations are underway, a preliminary report from Russia’s aviation watchdog suggests a bird strike may have prompted the pilot to attempt an emergency landing. Azerbaijan Airlines has changed its social media banners to black and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. A full investigation into the cause of the crash is expected.

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