Kazakhstan has released an interim report into the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash near Aktau that killed 38 people, saying damage to the aircraft was consistent with impact from elements of a warhead, although the source could not yet be determined.
The Ministry of Transport said the interim statement was issued one year after the crash because the final investigation could not be completed by the anniversary, as required under international aviation rules.
The Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190, operating Flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny, crashed near the city of Aktau on 25 December 2024. Twenty-nine people survived, many with serious injuries.
According to the report, forensic analysis found no evidence of an internal explosion. Examinations of the aircraft’s oxygen cylinders showed no damage, and no explosive substances were detected on foreign metallic objects recovered from the wreckage.
However, investigators said the damage observed on the aircraft was preliminarily assessed as consistent with impact from damaging elements of a warhead. The metallic fragments were assessed as parts of a weapon system, but no specific model was identified at this stage.
A traceological examination of part of the aircraft’s hydraulic system found through-type damage consistent with contact with hard, possibly metallic objects composed of iron-based alloys.
Both flight recorders were recovered and decoded, and investigators carried out a detailed on-site examination of the crash location, documenting the distribution of aircraft components and collecting wreckage for further analysis.
The technical investigation is being conducted by a special commission appointed by Kazakhstan’s acting transport minister, in line with Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation.
Accredited representatives from Azerbaijan, Russia and Brazil are participating in the inquiry, with the International Civil Aviation Organization acting as an observer. Separate criminal investigations are also under way in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Russia.
Kazakhstan published a preliminary report in February 2025, stressing that it contained only established factual information and did not include analysis or conclusions on the cause of the crash.
The interim report says investigators have analysed extensive material, including data on the flight crew and air traffic controllers, flight preparation and execution records, meteorological information and aircraft maintenance documentation.
Examinations were also carried out on avionics components, although data could not be extracted from the aircraft’s central maintenance computer because of thermal damage. Further analysis is being coordinated with international partners and equipment manufacturers.
Two working groups have been established as part of the inquiry: one examining risk assessment procedures for flights over or near conflict zones, and another focusing on wreckage reconstruction, including the aircraft’s hydraulic systems.
Kazakh authorities said the investigation was being conducted in a balanced and objective manner and that all conclusions would be based solely on verified facts.
The final report, which is expected to include detailed analysis, conclusions and safety recommendations, will be published on the Ministry of Transport’s website once the investigation is completed.
China’s ruling Communist Party is stepping up oversight of technology firms, internet platforms and digital finance in a sweeping drive to ta...
A wave of bomb threats targeting passenger flights has disrupted air travel across Europe, forcing diversions, airport closures and fighter jet esc...
U.S. President Donald Trump says Washington will end its annual financial and military aid to Israel by the end of 2026, under an agreement he clai...
Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says the U.S. must act to prevent war after Tehran sent a “strong and rational response” to Washington. Meanwhile, U.S. forces have reportedly carried out limited strikes against Iranian targets, including Qeshm Island,
Hundreds of millions of U.S. citizens head to the polls on 3 November to elect the House of Representatives and Senate. How they vote could influence the direction of Donald Trump’s remaining 26 months in office and the outcomes of the Ukraine and Iran conflicts.
A six-day humanitarian ceasefire in the Russian-held Ukrainian town of Oleshky ended on Sunday, 1 November, after facilitating aid deliveries and civilian evacuations.
Kyrgyzstan has emerged as Central Asia’s fastest-growing economy, fuelled by a construction boom, public investment and trade linked to Russia. But with Western sanctions tightening, can the country sustain its rapid growth?
Russia airstrikes on a school used as a humanitarian aid distribution point in southeastern Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region killed at least 26 people, including rescue workers and police officers, Ukrainian officials said. Another 27 people were reported missing.
A new book examining Azerbaijan’s military strategy, technology and operations during the Garabagh wars has been unveiled in Baku, offering insights into the country’s victories and lessons for modern warfare.
Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf says the U.S. must act to prevent war after Tehran sent a “strong and rational response” to Washington. Meanwhile, U.S. forces have reportedly carried out limited strikes against Iranian targets, including Qeshm Island,
Tajikistan has banned electronic cigarettes and nicotine delivery systems, becoming the latest Central Asian country to outlaw their production, import and sale as part of a wider push to protect public health.
Kyrgyzstan has emerged as Central Asia’s fastest-growing economy, fuelled by a construction boom, public investment and trade linked to Russia. But with Western sanctions tightening, can the country sustain its rapid growth?
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said the government plans to publish a draft of the country's new constitution in November, with public consultations to follow, as constitutional reforms remain a key issue in efforts to secure a final peace agreement with Azerbaijan.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment