At least 32 people survived a devastating plane crash near the Kazakh city of Aktau on Wednesday, after an Azerbaijan Airlines flight, J2-8243, burst into flames upon impact. The flight was traveling from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, with 67 people on board, including 62 passengers and five crew members. Two children were among the survivors, and all passengers received medical attention at a nearby hospital.
The plane crash occurred about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Aktau. Dramatic video footage from the scene showed survivors emerging from the wreckage, bloodied and disoriented. Witnesses saw the plane circling the airfield erratically before crashing and erupting into flames. Rescuers arrived promptly, extinguishing the fire and providing assistance. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with survivors, many crying out in pain, desperately asking for help. Elmira, a local volunteer who participated in the rescue, described seeing a young girl pleading for help for her trapped mother, who was still in the wreckage. “We kept them on the bus until the ambulance arrived,” Elmira shared. The survivors, including men, women, and children, were in critical condition and needed immediate medical care.
Preliminary reports suggest that the pilot attempted an emergency landing after a bird struck the aircraft, causing engine problems. As a result, the pilot quickly took action to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Kazakh authorities have opened a full investigation into the crash, in cooperation with Azerbaijan’s aviation officials.
The government of Kazakhstan has pledged to assist the families of those affected by the crash, including those who died or were injured. Additionally, they are ensuring the families receive the support they need during this difficult time.
After the tragedy, Azerbaijan Airlines announced it would suspend flights between Baku, Grozny, and Makhachkala, Russia, until the investigation is complete
Source: CNN