Date: 25th December 2024
Location: Near Aktau Airport (SCO), Kazakhstan
Aircraft: Embraer E190, registration 4K-AZ65
Operator: Azerbaijan Airlines
Flight Number: J2-8243
Route: Baku, Azerbaijan (GYD) to Grozny, Russia (GRV)
Occupants: 62 passengers, 5 crew
Fatalities: Undetermined (27 survivors confirmed)
Damage: Aircraft destroyed
Summary of Events
On 25th December 2024, Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, an Embraer E190 operating from Baku to Grozny, diverted to Aktau, Kazakhstan, due to adverse weather conditions at its destination. While attempting an emergency landing at Aktau Airport, the aircraft impacted terrain approximately 3km (1.6nm) from the runway threshold of Runway 11 and caught fire. Rescue teams successfully evacuated 27 survivors.
Sequence of Events
1. Planned Flight to Grozny:
• Flight J2-8243 departed Baku with 62 passengers and 5 crew members. The flight was uneventful until adverse weather at Grozny prompted a diversion.
2. Diversion to Aktau:
• The flight was redirected to Aktau Airport, approximately 600km away, as the nearest suitable alternate.
3. Final Approach:
• While maneuvering for final approach to Runway 11 at Aktau, the aircraft failed to align properly with the runway. Preliminary reports suggest the aircraft impacted terrain approximately 3km short of the runway.
4. Crash and Fire:
• The aircraft sustained significant damage upon ground contact, with a subsequent fire engulfing much of the wreckage.
5. Rescue Operations:
• Emergency response teams successfully evacuated 27 survivors, who were transported to local hospitals. The search for remaining occupants is ongoing.
Initial Findings
1. Weather Conditions:
• Local weather reports indicate poor visibility and gusting winds in the Aktau area at the time of the incident, potentially complicating the approach.
2. Aircraft Condition:
• The Embraer E190, registration 4K-AZ65, was reportedly airworthy and operating within its scheduled maintenance parameters.
3. Crew Decisions:
• The decision to divert to Aktau followed standard operating procedures for adverse weather at the original destination. The execution of the emergency landing and associated challenges are under investigation.
4. Impact Location:
• The aircraft came to rest approximately 3km from the runway threshold, suggesting difficulties in maintaining proper alignment or descent control during the final approach phase.
5. Survivor Statistics:
• Of the 67 people on board, 27 were confirmed rescued alive. The status of the remaining occupants is under review.
Ongoing Investigation
Kazakhstan’s Transport Ministry, along with Azerbaijan Airlines and relevant aviation authorities, has launched an investigation into the causes of the incident. Preliminary analysis will focus on:
• Meteorological data during the approach.
• Flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) information.
• Pilot decision-making and execution during the diversion and landing.
• Possible technical malfunctions or operational errors.
Recommendations (Preliminary)
1. Emergency Response Coordination:
• Evaluate rescue operations to ensure timely evacuation and medical assistance for survivors in future incidents.
2. Weather Preparedness:
• Enhance crew training for adverse weather operations, particularly during approaches at alternate airports.
3. Approach and Landing Training:
• Reinforce procedures for stabilized approaches, go-around protocols, and decision-making during diversions.
Safety Lessons
This tragic incident underscores the importance of precise decision-making during diversions and emergency landings. Adverse weather remains a significant challenge for flight crews, and thorough investigation will provide critical insights to prevent similar occurrences.
Disclaimer
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Our investigation reports are based on all the evidence and facts we have at the time of writing and posting. We apologise if any details are missed or are not fully accurate.
