Azerbaijan prepares lawsuit against Russia over AZAL plane crash

The agency reports that the Russian side continues to provide “biased commentary on the incident” even after Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport released its preliminary report on the crash.

“An evidentiary base is being compiled, facts and proof are being collected, and preparations for legal action in an international court are underway. Moscow must openly acknowledge its responsibility and take accountability. Otherwise, Baku is prepared to take further steps,” the statement reads.

According to reports, the Embraer 190 aircraft, which was operating a scheduled flight from Baku to Grozny, experienced a loss of GPS signal while flying over Russian airspace, including near Grozny airport.

An inspection of the aircraft revealed multiple punctures and damage to the fuselage, specifically on the rear section, the vertical and horizontal stabilizers, as well as the left wing and left engine. The damages were attributed to “external impacts,” with no signs of a bird collision detected.

On December 25, the Azerbaijani passenger plane, an Embraer 190, crashed near Aktau airport while en route from Baku to Grozny. There were 67 people on board, including the crew.

Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his condolences to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev following the crash in Kazakhstan.