At least 30 people are feared dead after a plane en route to Russia crashed while attempting an emergency landing near Aktau, Kazakhstan, on Wednesday. The aircraft, reportedly carrying 67 people, left 32 survivors, according to local authorities.

The flight, operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (J2-8243), was traveling from Baku to Grozny, Russia, but was diverted due to heavy fog in Grozny, as per Russian news agencies. Initial reports from Kazakh media suggested the plane had 110 people onboard, but this figure was later revised multiple times, ultimately confirming 67 individuals—62 passengers and five crew members.

Eyewitness footage captured the moment the aircraft rapidly lost altitude before crashing into an open field, where it burst into flames. Plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the site. Emergency responders quickly extinguished the fire and transported survivors to a nearby hospital for treatment.

In a statement, Azerbaijan Airlines confirmed the emergency landing approximately three kilometers from Aktau. "The Embraer 190 aircraft on flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny made an emergency landing near Aktau. Further details regarding the incident will be shared in due course," the airline announced on its social media platform.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, with technical issues among the potential factors being explored, according to Russia's Interfax news agency.