Pic: Investigators comb through wreckage of South Korean plane crash as families mourn victims Another Plane Crashes Between Norway and th...
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| Pic: Investigators comb through wreckage of South Korean plane crash as families mourn victims |
- Another Plane Crashes Between Norway and the Netherlands
- Azerbaijani Leader Urges Russia to 'Admit Responsibility' for Incident
By Ammar M. Rajab and Agency Report
Azerbaijan Airlines Plane Crash: 38 Dead, 29 Survivors
An Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 jet crashed in Kazakhstan, claiming 38 lives and leaving 29 survivors. The flight, originally en route from Baku to Grozny, diverted to Aktau after reporting a bird strike. Despite receiving clearance to enter Kazakhstan's airspace, the jet performed multiple spins before losing communication and crashing during its third landing attempt.
The victims included citizens of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Among the deceased were six Kazakh passengers, including a schoolboy, while three of the five crew members survived. The survivors are receiving medical care, and trauma specialists have been dispatched to support recovery efforts.
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the tragedy. Rescue operations involved nearly 500 workers, 97 pieces of equipment, two planes, and ten canine units. The aircraft’s black box has been recovered, and preliminary investigations point to potential human error or mechanical failure.
Embraer expressed its condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.” This marks a sombre moment for Azerbaijan Airlines, whose safety record is now under scrutiny.
Adding to the tragedy, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has accused Russia of accidentally downing the plane. Reports suggest the aircraft was hit by Russian air defenses and rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare systems. This assertion challenges earlier claims of a bird strike, raising tensions between the two nations.
South Korean Jet Crash: Over 170 Dead in Fiery Runway Incident
A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash-landed at Muan Airport in South Korea, resulting in the deaths of 179 passengers. The crash is now the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korea since 1997. Only two crew members survived, both pulled from the wreckage alive but in critical condition.
The flight, originating in Bangkok, was carrying 175 passengers and six crew members. Eyewitness footage shows the aircraft sliding at high speed on its belly before erupting into flames. Rescue teams struggled to contain the fire as debris scattered across the runway.
Investigators are exploring potential causes, including mechanical failure and a bird strike, though the skies were clear at the time of the crash. Aviation experts have called for caution against premature conclusions, emphasizing the need for detailed analysis of the black box data.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok visited the site and declared it a special disaster zone, promising full recovery support for the victims’ families. “We will spare no effort to uncover the truth and ensure such tragedies do not recur,” he said.
Jeju Air, known for its strong safety record, faces intense scrutiny. CEO Kim Yi-bae stated, “The aircraft showed no signs of malfunction before the incident. We await the results of the official investigation.”
Norwegian-Dutch Flight Skids Off Runway, All Onboard Safe
In a third aviation incident within 24 hours, a KLM Boeing 737-800 skidded off the runway during an emergency landing in Norway. The flight, bound for the Netherlands, was forced to divert to Sandefjord Torp Airport after experiencing a hydraulic system failure.
Though the landing was initially smooth, the plane veered off the runway into a grassy area. Remarkably, all 176 passengers and six crew members escaped unharmed. The incident highlights the critical importance of maintaining hydraulic systems, especially in high-pressure situations.
Authorities have launched an investigation, with initial findings suggesting that prompt actions by the flight crew prevented a more catastrophic outcome. Passengers expressed gratitude for the safe landing, with one saying, “The crew remained calm, and their professionalism saved our lives.”
Azerbaijan-Russia Tensions Escalate Over Downed Plane
The crash of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8432 has triggered a diplomatic dispute between Azerbaijan and Russia. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev accused Russia of shooting down the aircraft, calling for Moscow to acknowledge its role in the tragedy.
Aliyev claimed the plane was struck by Russian air defenses and rendered uncontrollable by electronic warfare systems. This contradicts earlier statements from the Kremlin, which attributed the crash to a bird strike. Evidence from aviation experts and eyewitness accounts suggests the damage could not have been caused by birds.
Russian President Vladimir Putin issued an apology, describing the incident as a “tragic mistake” amid heightened air defense operations. However, Aliyev has demanded a formal admission of guilt, compensation for the victims, and the prosecution of those responsible.
The situation has further strained Azerbaijan-Russia relations, with both nations agreeing to a joint investigation. Analysts warn that this incident could have long-term implications for regional stability and aviation safety protocols.
A Week of Mourning for Global Aviation
The tragedies in Azerbaijan, South Korea, and Norway have cast a shadow over the aviation industry, prompting renewed discussions on safety measures and emergency preparedness. Experts emphasize the importance of rigorous maintenance protocols, crew training, and international cooperation in accident investigations.
As families mourn their loved ones, the aviation industry faces mounting pressure to ensure safer skies. This harrowing week serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in air travel and the collective responsibility to minimize them.
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