The aviation industry across the Caucasus region has been thrown into uncertainty following the recent crash of a passenger plane, which some believe could have been caused by Russian air defense systems. According to an Azerbaijani lawmaker, there’s a significant likelihood that the plane was hit by a missile from Russian air defense systems that were on alert for potential Ukrainian drone attacks.
The ill-fated plane, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines, was en route from Baku to Grozny, the capital of Chechnya, a region in Russia, when it crashed near Aqtau, Kazakhstan. The tragic incident claimed the lives of 38 passengers and crew members. Hikmat Babaoghlu, the Azerbaijani lawmaker, stated in an interview that the theory of the plane being shot down seems to be the most plausible explanation for the crash.
Babaoghlu further highlighted that the crash occurred in Russian territory, implying that Russia should bear responsibility if the assumptions about the incident prove to be correct. The tragedy has sparked widespread speculation, with some experts pointing to visible damage on the plane’s tail section as potential evidence of it being shot down by Russian air defense systems.
While the investigation into the crash continues, the countries that lost citizens in the crash, namely Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan, are mourning their losses and tending to those injured. Kazakh experts have arrived at the crash site to examine the wreckage and the black box of the plane to help shed more light on the cause of the crash.
In response to the incident, Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended flights to several Russian cities. The crash has also caused ripples of concern in the aviation industry, particularly for those interested in investing in the region.
The White House has also commented on the incident, with spokesman John Kirby revealing that the U.S. has seen indications that the plane may have been hit by Russian air defense systems. The U.S. has offered its assistance in the ongoing investigation being conducted by Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
Despite the prevailing speculations, authorities are yet to confirm the cause of the crash. The black box from the plane is expected to provide crucial information, but it remains unclear where it will be examined. This process is technically demanding and not all countries possess the resources to undertake such work.
In the meantime, Azerbaijan mourns its dead, with the first seven survivors arriving back in the country and burials for four victims already conducted. The Azerbaijan Airlines has announced compensation for the families of the victims and those injured in the crash.
Thus, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks involved in aviation, particularly in politically volatile regions. For those interested in investing in the industry, it underscores the importance of comprehensive risk assessments and the impact of geopolitics on aviation safety.