Following the devastating Azerbaijan Airlines flight J28243 crash on 25 December 2024, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has demanded a comprehensive and unbiased investigation.
The inquiry must follow Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention, which requires investigators to release an initial report within 30 days. This protocol ensures timely transparency and accountability in aviation incidents.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh expressed his condolences over the tragedy, which claimed 38 lives. “We extend our heartfelt sympathies to those who lost loved ones.”
“To honor both the 38 victims and survivors, we must determine the cause and prevent such tragedies from happening again.” Walsh emphasized that understanding the circumstances is crucial for maintaining global aviation safety standards.
Concerns Over Russian Military Activity
The call for investigation comes after both Russian and Azerbaijani authorities confirmed the crash occurred in Russian airspace near ongoing military activities.
This location has raised significant concerns within the international aviation community about the safety of civilian aircraft operating in regions with active military operations.
Walsh emphasized, “Military operations must never endanger civilian aircraft, whether intentionally or accidentally. Given that multiple governments, including Russia and Azerbaijan, suggest military involvement in the crash of flight 8243, a thorough investigation becomes crucial.”
“We await the mandatory 30-day interim report as required by international law. If military action caused this tragedy, those responsible must face justice.”
Concerns Expressed to UN Security Council
Earlier in October 2024, as global tensions rose, IATA reminded the UN Security Council about nations’ responsibilities toward aviation safety during conflicts.
These obligations stem from Article 48 of the Geneva Conventions Protocol, prohibiting attacks on civilian targets, and the Chicago Convention. This requires states to protect civilian aircraft, avoid using force against them, and communicate any potential aviation hazards.
The reminder came amid growing concerns about the increasing number of conflict zones affecting commercial air routes worldwide.
IATA actively backs the Safe Skies Consultative Committee’s efforts to minimize conflict zone risks. The committee works to improve information sharing for risk assessment and develop better guidance for both countries and airline operators regarding conflict zones.
This collaboration has become increasingly important as geopolitical tensions continue to affect commercial aviation routes.
Investigation into Azerbaijan Airlines J28243 Accident
The investigation into Azerbaijan Airlines flight J28243 will likely focus on several key areas, including communication protocols between military and civilian aviation authorities.
It will assess the effectiveness of current conflict zone risk assessment methods, and the implementation of safety recommendations from previous similar incidents.
Aviation experts stress that findings from this investigation could lead to significant improvements in how the industry handles flights near conflict zones.
Summary
IATA has also called for enhanced international cooperation in sharing critical safety information about potential risks to civilian aircraft.
This includes better coordination between military and civilian authorities, more detailed risk assessments, and clearer communication channels for airlines operating in or near sensitive areas.
The association continues to work with its 290 member airlines, representing 83% of global air traffic, to maintain the highest safety standards possible.
The tragic Azerbaijan Airlines accident serves as a stark reminder of the vital importance of protecting civilian aviation from military conflicts and ensuring that proper protocols are followed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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