Baku: The US and UK embassies have extended their condolences to Azerbaijan in remembrance of the tragic plane crash that occurred on December 25, 2024, involving Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) flight J2-8243 on the Baku-Grozny route.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the expressions of sympathy were shared on the social media platforms of both embassies. The US Embassy acknowledged the loss and commended the bravery of Captain Iqor Ksnyakin, First Officer Aleksandr Kalyaninov, and flight attendant Hokuma Aliyeva, whose actions mitigated further loss of life. The embassy conveyed its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the 38 victims and extended well-wishes to the survivors.

The British Embassy also shared its condolences, remembering the victims and expressing solidarity with those affected. The embassy noted that their thoughts remain with the families, survivors, and communities impacted by the tragedy.

The incident marks one year since the crash of the Embraer 190-100 IGW aircraft, owned by Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL) and registered as 4K-AZ65. The aircraft was operating a regular flight from Baku, Azerbaijan, to Grozny, Russia, when it crashed near Aktau Airport in Kazakhstan. The crash resulted in the deaths of two flight crew members, the senior flight attendant, and 35 passengers.