Azerbaijan Airlines blames deadly plane crash on ‘external interference’ as Russia speculation grows

Azerbaijan Airlines has made the decision to suspend flights to eight additional Russian airports following a tragic incident involving a flight from Baku to Grozny. The airline has revealed that the crash was caused by “physical and technical external interference,” with reports suggesting that a Russian anti-aircraft missile may have been responsible for the disaster.

In a recent announcement, Azerbaijan Airlines stated that flights from Baku to eight Russian airports have been suspended since Dec. 28. This decision comes in addition to the previous suspension of flights between Baku and two other Russian airports. The airline explained that this move was made in collaboration with the Azerbaijan State Civil Aviation Authority, based on the preliminary results of the investigation into the crash of the Embraer 190 aircraft. The suspension will remain in effect until the final investigation is completed.

“It should be noted that on December 25, AZAL decided to suspend flights from Baku to Grozny and Makhachkala,” the airline’s statement read.

The airline had initially reported that there were 62 passengers and five crew members on board the ill-fated flight, with only 29 survivors. Preliminary findings from Azerbaijan’s investigation suggest that the aircraft was struck by a Russian anti-aircraft missile or shrapnel from such a missile.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Department of Information and Press of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment on the matter. A source familiar with Azerbaijan’s probe told Reuters that the aircraft was hit by a Russian Pantsir-S air defense system, which paralyzed communications during the flight’s approach to Grozny.

“No one claims that it was done on purpose. However, taking into account the established facts, Baku expects the Russian side to confess to the shooting down of the Azerbaijani aircraft,” the source noted.

As the investigation continues, Azerbaijan Airlines has taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety of its flights and passengers. The airline remains committed to uncovering the truth behind the tragic incident and holding those responsible accountable.