Azerbaijan Airlines crash in Kazakhstan kills 38; investigations ongoing.

At least 38 people were killed, and 29 others injured after an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed near Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan on Wednesday morning, according to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Emergency Situations. The aircraft, carrying 64 passengers and five crew members, was en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, but diverted to Aktau due to foggy conditions in Grozny.

Preliminary investigations suggest a bird strike may have caused engine failure, forcing an emergency landing attempt. However, a criminal investigation has been launched by Azerbaijan’s Prosecutor General’s Office, with authorities from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Russia collaborating to determine the exact cause.

Among the passengers were 37 Azerbaijani citizens, 16 Russians, six Kazakhs, and three Kyrgyz nationals. Of the 29 survivors, many remain hospitalized, with some in critical condition, including two children.

Emergency response teams, including over 400 personnel, canine units, and specialized equipment, have been deployed to the crash site. Investigators continue their work around the clock to retrieve evidence and assist victims.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev canceled his participation in the Commonwealth of Independent States meeting in St. Petersburg following the tragedy. He expressed condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the families of the victims. Russian authorities have sent medical personnel and additional equipment to assist at the crash site.

Aircraft manufacturer Embraer stated it is fully cooperating with investigators to determine the cause of the crash.