On Wednesday, December 25th, Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J2-8243 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, after diverting from southern Russia amid Ukrainian drone attacks. 38 people died in the crash. The Azerbaijan plane crash investigation suggests the aircraft was accidentally shot down by Russian air defenses. This rare and tragic incident prompted President Vladimir Putin to issue an unusual public apology, although Moscow has stopped short of formally admitting responsibility.
Unexpected Flight Path Across the Caspian Sea
The Embraer jet departed from Baku, Azerbaijan, bound for Grozny, Russia, but unexpectedly veered hundreds of miles across the Caspian Sea. It crashed on the opposite shore, with early explanations from Russian authorities suggesting a bird strike may have caused an emergency. However, these claims remain unconvincing, especially since Makhachkala, the nearest airport on its route, was closed that morning.
Findings From the Azerbaijan Plane Crash Investigation
Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that the aircraft was struck by a Russian Pantsir-S air defense system. Additionally, electronic warfare systems reportedly disrupted the plane’s communications as it approached Grozny.
Azerbaijan President Demands Accountability
While the incident appears unintentional, Azerbaijan expects Russia to formally acknowledge responsibility based on the available evidence. Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that is was a combination of ground fire and electronic interference that caused the crash. He criticized Russia’s initial explanations, including claims of bird strikes or gas cylinder explosions, calling them misleading and part of an attempt to obscure the truth. Aliyev urged Moscow to accept responsibility and ensure accountability for those involved.
Pilots’ Heroism Honored
Azerbaijan honored the crash victims, including pilots Igor Kshnyakin and Alexander Kalyaninov, and flight attendant Hokuma Aliyeva. During a ceremony at Baku’s Alley of Honour, President Aliyev praised the pilots’ courage and self-sacrifice. Their emergency landing, despite severe damage to the aircraft, saved 29 passengers at the cost of their own lives. The ceremony highlighted their heroism amid the tragic consequences revealed by the Azerbaijan plane crash investigation.
