Tragedy struck on Christmas morning as an Azerbaijan Airlines flight crashed near Aktau airport in western Kazakhstan, killing dozens and leaving survivors in critical condition. The Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, was rerouted due to dense fog before it came down in a fiery crash.

The Kazakhstani Emergencies Ministry reported that 32 people, including two children, survived the devastating crash, while the remaining passengers are feared dead. The plane was carrying 62 passengers and five crew members. At least four bodies have been recovered, and survivors are receiving urgent medical care at a nearby hospital.

Moment of Impact Captured on Video

Disturbing footage believed to show the moment of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash reveals the aircraft plummeting to the ground at high speed, followed by a massive fireball. Images from the crash site highlight the wrecked tail section of the plane, surrounded by rescue workers battling to extinguish the flames.

More than 50 rescuers responded to the scene, where the fire was successfully put out, according to Kazakhstani authorities. The exact cause of the crash remains unclear, though initial reports suggest the pilot attempted an emergency landing at Aktau airport.

International Condolences and Reactions

Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his condolences to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, according to a Kremlin statement. Meanwhile, Ramzan Kadyrov, the leader of Chechnya and a close ally of Putin, expressed his sorrow over the crash. Kadyrov noted that the survivors are in extremely serious condition and urged prayers for their recovery.

The plane’s passenger list included 37 Azerbaijani nationals, 16 Russians, six Kazakhstanis, and three Kyrgyz citizens, according to Azerbaijan Airlines. The airline confirmed that the aircraft encountered a bird strike, which may have contributed to the crash.

A Grim Day for Aviation

This Kazakhstan plane crash marks yet another aviation tragedy in the region. As investigators work to determine the cause of the Azerbaijan Airlines crash, the disaster serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with air travel, even amid strict safety protocols.

The Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 had been a reliable workhorse for the airline, which has expressed its deepest sympathies to the families of those affected. Authorities continue to search the wreckage for answers while supporting the survivors through this devastating ordeal.