By Youssef Yahya 
What a dark week in aviation it has been as two catastrophic accidents claimed 217 lives. While these tragedies highlight the risks associated with air travel, it remains one of the safest modes of transport. Below is a detailed recount of the events that unfolded during this somber week, culminating in the horrific Jeju Air disaster.
Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8432
Azerbaijan Airlines Flight J28432, a routine operation between Baku and Grozny International Airport (GRV) in Russia, turned deadly on December 25, 2024. On a normal day, the flight lasts approximately one hour. However, thick fog presented significant challenges for the crew that morning. Passengers later described failed landing attempts—two unsuccessful tries before a catastrophic third attempt.
The aircraft eventually diverted towards Aktau in Kazakhstan, a decision that perplexed many as closer airports were available. Russian authorities claimed alternative airports were suggested but refused by the crew. Tragically, video footage captured the aircraft descending uncontrollably before crashing, killing 38 of the 67 people onboard. Miraculously, the pilots managed to save 29 survivors, earning them significant recognition.
The blame: Political Tensions
The incident quickly escalated into a political controversy. Speculation emerged that the plane was hit by Russian air defense systems, fueled by videos showing deployed oxygen masks in the cabin. Russia initially denied involvement, attributing the crash to a bird strike or shrapnel from air-defense missiles. However, by Friday, the White House indicated that early evidence pointed to Russian responsibility.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his regret to Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, calling the crash a “tragic incident” without admitting culpability. Putin blamed Ukrainian drone attacks in the area, claiming that Russian air defenses were targeting these threats. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President compared the crash to the infamous downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in 2014.
On Sunday, Azerbaijan’s President formally accused Russia of downing the plane. In a televised address, he stated,
“We can clearly say today that the plane was shot down by Russia. This is a fact. No one can deny this fact. Again, we are not saying that this was done intentionally, but it was done.”
Jeju Air Flight 2216: What a Deadly Crash
On the morning of Sunday, December 29, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, attempted to land at Muan International Airport in South Korea. The aircraft belly-landed on the runway and failed to stop, ultimately crashing into a wall at the runway’s end. The collision caused the aircraft to erupt into flames, resulting in the deaths of 179 of the 181 people onboard. The two survivors, both crew members, are currently receiving treatment at hospitals in Seoul.
This tragedy is now South Korea’s deadliest aviation accident. The incident has left the nation grappling with grief and uncertainty as investigators work to uncover the cause. Preliminary theories include bird strikes and adverse weather conditions.
At a press briefing, Jeju Air’s leadership offered a formal apology. The CEO took “full responsibility,” regardless of the investigation’s findings.
Song Kyung-hoon, the airline’s management support head, dismissed allegations of maintenance negligence, stating,
“We prioritize safe flight and conduct thorough maintenance before and after departures, so this is not an issue of maintenance negligence.”
Other Aviation Incidents Over the Weekend
PAL Airlines Dash 8-400 Incident
In Halifax, Canada, a PAL Airlines Dash 8-400 suffered a landing gear failure while landing at Halifax International Airport (YHZ). The aircraft, operating on behalf of Air Canada from St. John’s International Airport (YYT), veered off the runway and caught fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Flight 1204
Meanwhile, a KLM flight traveling from Oslo to Amsterdam encountered a hydraulics failure mid-flight. The crew diverted to Oslo Torp Sandefjord Airport (TRF) as a precaution. Upon landing, the aircraft veered off the runway and into grass, causing no injuries but raising concerns over technical failures.
Although this dark week in aviation and while these tragedies highlight the risks associated with air travel, it remains one of the safest modes of transport.
Youssef Yahya is the CEO and Founder of Aviation for Aviators, a platform dedicated to the aviation industry. With over 3 years of experience as an aviation writer, Youssef is passionate about sharing his insights on aviation, entrepreneurship, and the broader business landscape. As a Teaching Assistant in Entrepreneurship at Nile University, he also nurtures the next generation of entrepreneurs. When he’s not exploring the skies or business ventures, you can find him saying, ‘Drag your coffee, and let’s talk aviation, entrepreneurship, and football.’
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