Passengers Recall Terrifying Moments Before Azerbaijan Airlines Crash in Kazakhstan

Passengers and crew aboard the Azerbaijan Airlines flight that tragically crashed in Kazakhstan on Wednesday recounted hearing loud bangs moments before the disaster. The flight, J2-8243, had been diverted from its original destination of Grozny, in southern Russia, before crashing in a fireball near Aktau, Kazakhstan. The incident claimed at least 38 lives, while 29 people miraculously survived.

Subhonkul Rakhimov, a passenger hospitalized after the crash, described the terrifying experience to Reuters.
“After the bang, I thought the plane was going to fall apart,” he said. “I began reciting prayers, preparing for the end. It was obvious the plane was damaged—it felt as though it was no longer under control.”

Another survivor, Vafa Shabanova, also reported hearing a loud bang, followed by a second one.
“I was very scared,” she said, recounting that a flight attendant instructed her to move to the rear of the aircraft. Both survivors noted that oxygen levels in the cabin seemed affected after the initial impact.

Flight attendant Zulfugar Asadov provided further insights, explaining that the plane was unable to land in Grozny due to dense fog. While the pilot circled the area, external noises—described as "bangs"—were heard.

The crash occurred in an area where Moscow has frequently deployed air defense systems against Ukrainian attack drones. The connection between these events and the disaster remains unclear, but investigators are probing all possible causes.

This tragic accident underscores the urgent need for enhanced aviation safety measures and thorough investigations to prevent such catastrophes in the future.