Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan Collaborate in Post-Crash Response to Azerbaijan Airlines Incident
ASTANA – In the aftermath of the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines plane near Aktau in western Kazakhstan on December 25, both countries are fostering a spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Kazakh President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev and his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev, have engaged in meaningful discussions to support victims’ families and ensure a thorough investigation of the incident.
A total of 492 personnel and 102 units of equipment, along with two aircraft and 10 canine teams, were involved in the search and rescue effort. Photo credit: Kazakh Emergency Situations Ministry
Kazakh President Assures Comprehensive Investigation
On December 27, President Tokayev spoke with President Aliyev via phone, highlighting the progress of the special state commission set up to investigate the crash. Kazakh investigators are committed to providing a clear and unbiased explanation of the incident’s circumstances.
Diplomatic Support and Humanitarian Efforts
Both leaders exchange heartfelt condolences and assurances of support to the families of the victims. They agreed on maintaining close communication during the investigation phase, demonstrating a strong bond between the two nations.
Azerbaijan’s presidential press office praised Kazakh rescuers for their immediate actions and the dedicated team of medical professionals who provided compassionate and professional care to the injured. Most wounded passengers have returned home, with a few still undergoing treatment in Kazakhstan.
Kazakh Citizens Show Solidarity
The citizens of Aktau responded yeomanly, rushing to hospitals to offer blood donations following reports of the emergency landing. This community support underscores the strong ties between the two countries.
Timeline of the Crash
The Embraer 190 aircraft, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines on a route from Baku to Grozny, crashed approximately three kilometers from Aktau on December 25. Among the 67 on board were 62 passengers and five crew members. Tragically, 39 lives were lost, with 29 surviving passengers, including three children.
President Tokayev immediately directed the government to set up a special commission to investigate the crash. Photo credit: Kazakh Emergency Situations Ministry
The flight passengers included citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. All Kazakh nationals on the plane perished.
Investigation and Expert Involvement
The crash’s exact causes remain under investigation. Kazakhstan formed a special commission led by Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev. Transport Minister Marat Karabayev provided a detailed timeline of events during a press briefing on December 26.
The aircraft faced mechanical issues, including a malfunctioning elevator and control system. The crew diverted to Aktau due to an exploded oxygen cylinder in the cabin, leading to passenger consciousness loss. After two failed landing attempts, communication was lost, and the plane crashed at 11:28 a.m.
Latest Developments
Representatives from Embraer in Brazil arrived in Aktau on December 27, complying with Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention. The Center for Investigation and Prevention of Aeronautical Accidents is expected to send experts soon.
Two black boxes have been recovered. Photo credit: Kazakh Emergency Situations Ministry
Türkiye also sent an eight-member expert team to Aktau on December 27, aiding the investigation at Azerbaijan’s request. Their mission is to identify the accident’s causes and offer technical support.
In response to the crash, Azerbaijan Airlines temporarily halted flights from Baku to multiple Russian airports.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan in the aftermath of the Azerbaijan Airlines crash exemplifies the importance of international solidarity and cooperation in times of crisis. The swift actions of Kazakh authorities, alongside contributions from international experts, underscore a commitment to uncovering the truth and providing the necessary support to affected families.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this tragic event and the collaborative response. Your comments can help guide further discussions and support the ongoing investigation.
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