State commission convenes to investigate Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash causes

BAKU: The State Commission, established under the directives of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to investigate the causes of the Azerbaijan Airlines plane crash in Kazakhstan, convened its meeting on Wednesday, Azerbaijan State News Agency (Azertac) reported.

Chairman of the commission, Prime Minister Ali Asadov, emphasised that Aliyev has taken personal control over the investigation of the incident.

The commission addressed several urgent issues, including providing necessary assistance to those injured in the accident. Health Minister Teymur Musayev was tasked with coordinating medical assistance for the injured in collaboration with the Kazakh side.

Additionally, the commission reviewed the ongoing efforts to identify the individuals who lost their lives in the crash. Immediate tasks were assigned to support the families and relatives of the injured and deceased.

Family members and relatives of the passengers involved in the plane crash were promptly notified through the hotline set up at Heydar Aliyev International Airport. They also received psychological support and other necessary assistance.

In collaboration with Kazakh authorities, the Prosecutor General's Office of Azerbaijan is investigating the causes of the incident and pursuing a criminal case. The commission has been instructed to provide frequent public updates on the investigation's progress.

Additionally, it was noted that, if required and with medical consent, arrangements have been made to evacuate Azerbaijani citizens injured in the crash and currently being treated in Aktau, returning them to Azerbaijan.

The meeting emphasised the ongoing cooperation with Kazakh counterparts at the government level to provide necessary assistance to the injured and address any emerging issues. Commission members were given instructions to carry out their respective responsibilities.

Meanwhile, Aliyev said the matter regarding the plane crash must be thoroughly investigated.

"The Azerbaijan Airlines plane, flying on the Baku-Grozny route, changed its course due to worsening weather conditions and began heading towards Aktau Airport, where the crash occurred during landing," said Aliyev during a meeting on the plane crash.

The head of state further stated: "There are videos of the plane crash available in the media and on social networks, and everyone can watch them. However, the reasons for the crash are not yet known to us. There are various theories, but I believe it is premature to discuss them. The matter must be thoroughly investigated."

Meanwhile, flights on the Baku-Grozny-Baku and Baku-Makhachkala-Baku routes have been suspended until the investigation is concluded, Azertac reported.

"Until the investigation is concluded, Azerbaijan Airlines has suspended flights on the Baku-Grozny-Baku and Baku-Makhachkala-Baku routes," Azerbaijan Airlines told Azertac.

"All other flights will be operated as scheduled," Azerbaijan Airlines added.

-- BERNAMA

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