AZAL Plane Crash in Aktau: Preliminary Report by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport has released a preliminary report on the AZAL plane crash near Aktau. The document reveals shocking details that suggest possible external impact on the aircraft.
Key Findings of the Report
- Multiple holes and foreign metal objects were found in the aircraft’s fuselage.
- Damage caused by these objects led to hydraulic fluid leakage, pressure loss, and stabilizer failure.
- Both GPS systems on board were inoperative, which could have hindered navigation.
- Before losing control, a loud bang was recorded, after which the autopilot disengaged. Thirty-four seconds later, a second impact was detected.
- A flight attendant reported to the pilot that "two seats in the rear rows exploded".
- The crew changed their emergency landing destination multiple times: initially Mineralnye Vody, then Baku, and finally Aktau.
What Is the "Kover" Plan and Why Does It Matter?
Before the crash, air traffic controllers reported the activation of the "Kover" plan in Grozny. This protocol is typically declared in cases of unauthorized airspace intrusion or an airborne emergency.
It remains unclear whether this was directly linked to the AZAL tragedy, but the presence of structural damage and navigation system failures calls for further investigation.
What’s Next?
The investigation is ongoing, but early findings suggest the aircraft may have been affected by an external force.
The key question remains: what or who caused the crash?
The editorial board is not responsible for the content and accuracy of material taken, sent or obtained from other sources. The publication of such materials is for informational purposes only and does not imply automatic endorsement or approval of their content.