On Thursday 25 December, a solemn commemoration ceremony took place in Baku to mark the first anniversary of the tragic Azerbaijan Airlines crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan.
Families of the victims, survivors, airline and government officials gathered at the Second Alley of Honour to pay tribute to the 38 individuals who lost their lives in the disaster.
The ceremony was a deeply emotional occasion, with loved ones and officials laying flowers at the graves of the fallen crew members and passengers.
Prayers were offered in their memory, and the lives of these individuals were honoured for their courage and sacrifice. Among those present were family members of the crew, who expressed their grief and remembrance.
A Legacy of Bravery and Sacrifice
The anniversary served as a reminder of the heroic actions of the crew members who, in the face of overwhelming odds, ensured the safety of 29 passengers during the in-flight emergency.
Hökmə Aliyeva’s brother, Coşqun Nəsibli, spoke movingly about the need to keep his sister’s memory alive and for justice to be served.
“Hökmə’s name must be remembered forever. Most importantly, justice must be served – all responsible must be found and punished. Only then can we begin to heal,” Nəsibli said, highlighting the ongoing desire for accountability in the wake of the tragedy.
The incident occurred on December 25, 2024, when an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190, operating the Baku-Grozny route, crashed following an in-flight emergency.
The tragic event shocked the nation and prompted Azerbaijani authorities to form a State Commission to investigate the causes of the crash and determine accountability.
Honouring Heroes
As part of the nationwide observance, a one-minute silence was held at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, paying respects to those who perished.
In recognition of their bravery and selfless service, the crew members who lost their lives were posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan.
Their actions in the face of extreme danger saved numerous lives and left a lasting impact on the country, inspiring future generations of aviation professionals and citizens alike.
The ceremony was not only a moment of reflection but also a call for justice, remembrance, and continued efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The legacy of the fallen crew members and passengers will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who knew them, as well as in the collective memory of Azerbaijan.
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