Azerbaijan assumes E190 was shot by Russian Anti Air Missiles

Azerbaijan Investigates Possible Russian Involvement in Plane Crash

On December 25, 2024, an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer E190 tragically crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, resulting in 38 fatalities among the 67 passengers and crew on board. While initial reports pointed to adverse weather and operational challenges, recent allegations suggest a far more concerning possibility: the aircraft may have been mistakenly targeted by a Russian air defense system.

The flight was en route from Baku to Grozny but faced complications due to poor weather conditions at its destination. After reportedly being denied landing clearance at multiple Russian airports, including Makhachkala and Mineralnye Vody, the crew diverted to Aktau in neighboring Kazakhstan.

During this period, heightened tensions in the region played a significant role. A Ukrainian drone attack was reportedly underway near Grozny, leading to increased activity from Russian air defense systems. Azerbaijani sources suggest that the Embraer E190 may have been mistakenly identified as a threat and engaged by a Russian Pantsir-S air defense system.

This suspicion has raised critical questions about the safety of civilian airspace in regions with active military operations. Notably, the airspace over Chechnya remained open to commercial flights at the time of the crash, despite the ongoing military alert.

Authorities in Azerbaijan are now conducting a detailed investigation, seeking clarity on the circumstances that led to this tragic event. Russian officials have yet to respond to the allegations, leaving many questions unanswered.

This incident highlights the challenges and risks of operating civilian flights in areas affected by military activity. The ongoing investigation will be crucial in determining accountability and ensuring safer protocols in the future.