Plane crash
Dozens Survive Kazakhstan Plane Crash Amid Tragic Losses
A passenger plane carrying 67 people crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, leaving 38 dead but dozens alive, local officials report.
The Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, en route from Baku to Grozny, Russia, was diverted due to fog before attempting an emergency landing. The plane caught fire and crashed about 3 km from Aktau at 06:28 GMT on Wednesday.
Unconfirmed reports suggest a collision with birds or possible involvement of Russian air defense as investigators explore all scenarios. Survivors, mostly Azerbaijani nationals, described harrowing escapes, while families await news of missing loved ones.
Both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have launched investigations, and the flight data recorder has been recovered. Flights between Baku and certain Russian cities have been suspended pending further inquiry.
Aircraft manufacturer Embraer has pledged full cooperation with authorities.