On Christmas Day 2024, Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, while attempting to land in foggy conditions. The crash, which killed 38 of the 62 passengers, has sparked suspicions of a Russian missile strike, echoing a similar 2003 incident involving a missile-hit cargo plane that landed safely.

BulletsIn

• Azerbaijan Airlines flight J2-8243 was en route from Baku to Grozny, diverted to Aktau due to fog.
• Crashed 3 km short of Aktau airport; 38 of 62 onboard killed.
• Footage shows the aircraft descending steeply at high speed before the crash.
• Speculations suggest a Russian surface-to-air missile may have hit the plane.
• Claims supported by fuselage holes resembling bullet or shrapnel damage.
• Ukrainian official alleged Russian air defense mistook the plane for a drone.
• Incident draws parallels to a 2003 DHL cargo plane struck by a missile in Baghdad but landed safely.
• 2003 plane managed to fly without hydraulics, controlled using only engine power.
• Investigations underway; no official confirmation of missile involvement yet.
• Questions remain about Russian airspace security and accidental strikes.