Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the 38 individuals who tragically lost their lives in the Azerbaijan Airlines crash. The disaster occurred on December 25, 2024, near Aktau, Kazakhstan.
In his statement on Thursday, Mudavadi emphasized Kenya’s solidarity with the people of Azerbaijan during this challenging time. He also extended his prayers for strength and comfort to the victims’ families and wished the 29 survivors a speedy recovery.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with the people of Azerbaijan following the tragic air crash near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243, en route from Baku to Grozny, met with a heartbreaking accident, claiming the lives of 38 individuals and leaving 29 survivors injured,” Mudavadi stated.
He added: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and stand in solidarity with all those affected. To the survivors and crew members, we wish a swift and complete recovery. May strength and comfort find their way to all during this deeply challenging time.”
The Crash
The Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 was traveling from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, when it encountered complications due to poor visibility caused by fog. As the plane attempted an emergency landing near the city of Aktau in Kazakhstan, it tragically caught fire.
Footage of the incident captured the aircraft descending rapidly with its landing gear down before erupting in flames upon impact. The fire and crash claimed 38 lives, leaving only 29 survivors who were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Passengers and Crew
The passengers onboard were predominantly Azerbaijani nationals. However, reports indicate that there were also individuals from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan among the victims and survivors.
Azerbaijan Airlines has since confirmed that flights between Baku and the Russian cities of Grozny and Makhachkala have been suspended pending an in-depth investigation.
Investigation Underway
In its initial statement, Azerbaijan Airlines described the incident as an emergency landing approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from Aktau Airport. The airline has pledged full cooperation with authorities to determine the cause of the crash and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
While the specifics of the mechanical or environmental factors contributing to the crash are yet to be determined, experts are examining potential issues related to navigation systems, pilot decision-making, and adverse weather conditions.
International Response
The tragedy has prompted condolences and support from leaders worldwide. Mudavadi’s message highlights the international community’s shared grief over such disasters, as well as a collective resolve to ensure aviation safety.
Kenya’s Solidarity
As Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS, Mudavadi has been at the forefront of expressing the nation’s empathy and solidarity during global crises. His statement underscores Kenya’s commitment to fostering international unity and supporting nations in times of need.
This recent tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of advancing aviation safety standards, ensuring robust training for airline personnel, and maintaining international collaboration in the industry.
As the world awaits the findings of the investigation into the Azerbaijan Airlines crash, Mudavadi’s words echo a universal sentiment: the loss of lives is irreplaceable, and the survivors’ recovery is paramount.
In the face of tragedy, Kenya stands with Azerbaijan and all affected nations, offering condolences, support, and prayers for healing.
