ABC News - Russian missile suspected of causing deadly Christmas Day plane crash in Kazakhstan
The crash of Azeron Airlines flight 8243 on Christmas Day in Kazakhstan is suspected to have been caused by a Russian anti-aircraft system. The plane, which took off from Baku, Azerbaijan, was en route to Grozny, Russia, when it crashed, killing 38 of the 67 people on board. New video footage shows the plane flying erratically before crashing, with visible damage to its wing. Initially, local officials suggested a bird strike as the cause, but a U.S. official indicated that early signs point to a Russian anti-aircraft system. This has drawn comparisons to the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 by Russian forces in Ukraine. Andrew Nicholson, an expert in the region, noted that the wreckage shows damage consistent with surface-to-air fire. The investigation is ongoing, with the plane's black boxes recovered. Meanwhile, Israel's airline El Al has suspended flights to Russia due to developments in Russian airspace.
Key Points:
- Russian anti-aircraft system suspected in Kazakhstan plane crash.
- 38 out of 67 passengers killed; 29 survived.
- Initial bird strike theory doubted by U.S. official.
- Comparison to 2014 MH17 downing by Russian forces.
- El Al suspends flights to Russia amid airspace concerns.
Details:
1. 🚨 Russian Anti-Aircraft System Suspected in Crash
- A Russian anti-aircraft system is suspected to have caused a deadly plane crash on Christmas Day in Kazakhstan.
- Video evidence shows the plane flying erratically before descending and bursting into flames.
- The crash resulted in 38 fatalities, with dozens more potentially affected.
- Investigations are ongoing to confirm the cause and assess whether international protocols were violated.
- Authorities are coordinating with international aviation bodies to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
- Reactions from international bodies are being monitored as evidence is assessed.
2. 📹 Erratic Flight and Crash Details
- Azeron Airlines flight 8243 took off from Baku, Azerbaijan, heading to Grne, Russia, and soon exhibited erratic flight behavior, including rapid altitude changes and visible wing damage, before crashing near Oow, Kazakhstan.
- The flight had 67 passengers from four countries, with a tragic loss of 38 lives, including both pilots.
- Initial investigations suggest mechanical failure as a possible cause, with authorities launching a full-scale investigation into the crash.
- Emergency response teams were dispatched immediately, with ongoing efforts to provide support to the victims' families and a commitment to uncovering the crash's cause.
3. ❓ Investigations and Speculations
- 29 individuals survived the crash, with some walking away unharmed, indicating varying impact severity.
- Initial reports from local officials suggest bird strike as the cause, but details remain unconfirmed.
- A U.S. official questions the bird strike theory, hinting at possible Russian anti-aircraft involvement, drawing parallels to the 2014 Malaysia Airlines MH17 incident, which was confirmed to be shot down by Russian forces.
- The Kremlin advises against speculation, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation before concluding the cause.
- The investigation is ongoing, with multiple indicators and potential causes being evaluated, necessitating patience for accurate results.