The investigation into the crash of the Azerbaijani passenger plane in Kazakhstan is ongoing, with survivors reporting that they heard three blasts from outside the aircraft as it flew over Grozny. Some officials and experts have suggested that Russian air defense systems may have been responsible for bringing down the plane. The White House has also indicated that there is evidence pointing to this possibility but has not provided further details due to the ongoing investigation.
Following the crash, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport spoke with survivors and stated that the investigation is now focused on determining what weapon caused the incident. Initial reports suggested that a Russian surface-to-air missile was fired at the plane, leading to the tragic crash that left 38 people dead and 29 injured. The aircraft, flying from Baku to Grozny, was attempting an emergency landing in Aktau, Kazakhstan, after being denied access to Russian airports.
Survivors of the crash reported hearing three blast sounds coming from outside the aircraft as it flew over Grozny. These reports have prompted investigations into the possibility of an external impact on the plane. An investigation team, along with aviation specialists, will work to determine what type of weapon or rocket was used in the attack. The second black box of the aircraft has been located and handed over to the investigation team for further analysis.
In response to the crash and ongoing investigation, Azerbaijan Airlines and other carriers have announced suspensions of flights to Russian airports. Azerbaijan Airlines will not operate flights from Baku to seven Russian airports, including Grozny, until the final results of the investigation are released. Qazaq Air in Kazakhstan and El Al in Israel have also announced flight suspensions and route changes due to the developments in Russian airspace and the potential risks associated with flights to the region.
The statements and actions taken by various airlines and officials reflect the seriousness of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation into the crash. The survivors’ accounts of the blast sounds and external impacts on the aircraft have raised concerns about the possibility of an attack on the plane. As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to come to light regarding the cause of the crash and the potential involvement of Russian air defense systems. The tragedy has left many families mourning the loss of loved ones and injured survivors recovering from the traumatic experience.
