Aktau, Kazakhstan — An Azerbaijan Airlines passenger jet flying from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, crashed on Wednesday near Aktau in western Kazakhstan. The aircraft was reportedly rerouted due to heavy fog in Grozny.
According to Russian news agencies, the crash was caused by a collision with a flock of birds shortly after the plane altered its course. Initial reports indicate that there are survivors among the 62 passengers and five crew members on board. Rescue operations are currently underway, with emergency services dispatched to the crash site.
Kazakh media have reported that local authorities are coordinating with international teams to assist in the rescue efforts. The condition of the survivors has not yet been disclosed, and families of the passengers are being notified.
Azerbaijan Airlines has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident. Aviation authorities in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are expected to launch a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.
The incident has sparked discussions about flight safety protocols in adverse weather conditions and the risks posed by bird strikes to aircraft.
This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
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Live updates: Rescue underway after plane crashes in Kazakhstan
cgtn.com
