Azerbaijan Declares National Mourning Following Deadly Plane Crash in Kazakhstan

Azerbaijan is observing a national day of mourning after an Azerbaijan Airlines passenger plane crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, killing at least 38 people and injuring 32 others. The Embraer 190 aircraft, en route from Baku to Grozny, made an emergency landing after reportedly experiencing a bird strike, according to officials.

Emergency workers are treating survivors, many in critical condition. Investigations by Azerbaijani, Kazakh, and Russian officials are underway, with the plane’s black box recovered and a joint investigation between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan is underway.

Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended flights to Grozny and Makhachkala, and President Ilham Aliyev pledged regular updates on the investigation. Meanwhile, rescue efforts continue as specialists assist survivors and families of the victims.