Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with the families of the crew members who lost their lives and the surviving flight attendants from the crash of an Embraer 190 passenger plane operated by Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC on the Baku-Grozny route, APA reports. During the meeting, President Aliyev expressed his condolences and praised the heroism and professionalism of the crew, which saved the lives of approximately 30 passengers.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev detailed the events surrounding the crash, stating that the AZAL passenger plane encountered an external impact near Grozny, Russia, on December 25. Despite the severe damage and loss of control, the pilots executed an emergency landing in Aktau. The Azerbaijani state has posthumously awarded the title of National Hero to two pilots and one flight attendant, while two surviving flight attendants received the Order of Rashadat of the 1st Category.
President Aliyev announced the establishment of a State Commission and a criminal investigation by the Azerbaijani Prosecutor’s Office to uncover the circumstances leading to the crash. He highlighted preliminary findings that suggest serious criminal issues, including the failure to close the airspace after the plane was shot at from the ground. The President criticized the Russian state agencies for allegedly covering up the incident and focusing on implausible theories.
The President emphasized the courage of the crew, noting that the pilots likely understood the minimal chance of survival but made every effort to save lives. He also highlighted the bravery of the flight attendants in maintaining calm during the crisis. The investigation into the incident continues, with the plane’s black boxes undergoing analysis in Brazil, a decision made to ensure objectivity.
President Aliyev reiterated Azerbaijan’s commitment to justice for the victims and transparency in the investigation. He condemned the shortcomings in Russian airspace management and coordination that may have contributed to the tragedy. The President offered his support to the victims’ families, assuring them of the Azerbaijani state’s backing and promising that all issues of concern would be addressed.
The meeting concluded with an awards ceremony to honor the crew members for their bravery and sacrifice.