Aktau, Kazakhstan, Dec 26 (V7N) – An Embraer passenger jet operated by Azerbaijan Airlines crashed near the city of Aktau on Wednesday, killing 38 people and injuring 29 others. The crash occurred after the flight deviated hundreds of miles off its scheduled route.

The ill-fated flight, J2-8243, was traveling from Azerbaijan to the Chechen city of Grozny in southern Russia. According to Russia's aviation watchdog, the aircraft may have encountered an emergency, possibly caused by a bird strike, although aviation experts expressed skepticism about this theory.

Reports indicate the nearest Russian airport on the plane’s intended path was closed on Wednesday morning, forcing the flight to divert across the Caspian Sea. Poor weather conditions were cited as a possible factor by Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, but he emphasized that the cause remains unclear and requires a thorough investigation.

38 fatalities, including passengers and crew.

29 survivors, including two children, received hospital treatment for injuries.

Kazakhstan's emergencies ministry confirmed fire services extinguished the resulting blaze. The recovery of victims' remains is ongoing.

Video footage captured the aircraft descending rapidly before striking the seashore and bursting into flames. Thick black smoke rose from the crash site, and survivors were seen emerging from the wreckage, some visibly bloodied and injured.

Statements from Officials

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev:

“This is a great tragedy that has become a tremendous sorrow for the Azerbaijani people. The cause of the crash must be fully investigated.”

Kazakhstan Deputy Prime Minister Kanat Bozumbayev:

Provided updates to an Azerbaijani delegation, confirming the death toll and rescue efforts.

The crash comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Ukrainian drone strikes have reportedly targeted the Chechen city of Grozny this month, though Kyiv has not acknowledged these actions. The proximity of the crash to this area has raised questions, but officials have not directly linked the incidents.

The investigation will likely focus on potential technical issues, weather conditions, and the rationale behind the flight's significant deviation from its original route.

END/WD/RH