A tragic plane crash involving an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 jet in Kazakhstan has claimed 38 lives, including both pilots. However, 29 passengers survived, thanks to the heroic efforts of the crew.
The flight, which was traveling from Baku to Grozny, was forced to make an emergency landing near Aktau due to bad weather. Azerbaijan Airlines' president, Samir Rzayev, praised the pilots’ bravery, stating, “Their actions, even in the face of such a tragedy, saved lives and will be remembered forever.”
Survivors’ Escape from Rear Section
Video footage from the scene showed passengers being evacuated from the rear section of the aircraft, which is often considered safer in crashes. Studies, including one by Time Magazine in 2015, show that seats at the back of a plane have lower fatality rates compared to those in the middle or front.
Experienced Crew and a Well-Maintained Plane
The pilots had over 15,000 hours of flying experience, and the aircraft had recently passed a technical inspection. Despite this, the accident occurred under extraordinary circumstances.
Investigation Raises Questions
Initial investigations suggest possible damage to the plane’s elevator and rudder controls, with some pointing to shrapnel as the cause. This has led to speculation about involvement of a Russian anti-missile system, though Russian officials deny this claim. The aircraft’s black box has been recovered, and authorities are working to determine the exact cause.
Regional Concerns
The crash happened amid growing military activity in the region. Reports of Ukrainian drone attacks in Grozny on the same day have added to the speculation. This incident highlights the need for stronger safety measures in areas with ongoing conflicts.
Remembering the Heroes
While investigations continue, the actions of the pilots are being hailed as heroic. Their quick thinking and dedication helped save many lives, leaving a lasting legacy of courage in the face of tragedy.
