Aktau, Kazakhstan — An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet en route from Baku, Azerbaijan to Grozny, Russia crashed on Wednesday near the city of Aktau in western Kazakhstan. The airline confirmed that the plane was carrying 62 passengers and five crew members.
Initial reports indicate that there are survivors from the crash. Rescue operations are currently underway as emergency services work diligently to assist those affected. Witnesses at the scene described a chaotic but hopeful atmosphere as survivors were pulled from the wreckage.
Chinese media outlet CGTN visited the crash site to provide updates on the unfolding situation. Law enforcement officials have cordoned off the area to facilitate rescue efforts and ensure the safety of onlookers. Rescue workers on the ground reported that survivors have been transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.
“We saw several people being moved to ambulances,” said one eyewitness. “The rescue teams are working very hard to find everyone.”
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Aviation authorities are expected to launch a full investigation once the immediate rescue efforts have concluded. The incident has prompted concern across the region, with many awaiting further news about the condition of the passengers and crew.
Azerbaijan Airlines has not released a statement beyond confirming the number of individuals on board. Families of the passengers are being contacted, and support services are expected to be offered to those affected by the tragedy.
The city of Aktau, located along the Caspian Sea, has mobilized its emergency response teams to assist in the crisis. Local hospitals have been placed on alert to receive and treat survivors.
More information will be provided as the situation develops.
Reference(s):
Stringer Dispatch: Rescue efforts underway at crash site in Kazakhstan
cgtn.com
