Metrojet Flight 9268, operated by Kogalymavia Airlines, was a charter service carrying 224 passengers and crew from Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, to St. Petersburg, Russia. Within 23 minutes of departure, the aircraft crashed in the northern Sinai Peninsula, tragically killing everyone on board. Initial investigations pointed to an explosive device placed on the aircraft, leading Egyptian officials and the Russian government to open thorough inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the bombing.

The flight had taken off in the early morning hours, and as it ascended, reports indicated that the plane experienced a rapid loss of altitude, subsequently breaking apart in midair at approximately 31,000 feet. The ensuing debris field was extensive, leading to challenges in the recovery effort and investigation. Upon further investigation, officials classified the incident as a terrorist act carried out by members of the Islamic State group, which claimed responsibility soon after the crash. The event sent shockwaves through the international community, raising concerns about aviation safety, particularly in regions facing security challenges.

In response to the bombing, several countries issued travel warnings to Egypt, impacting tourism which is vital to the country's economy. Additionally, Russia imposed a temporary ban on flights to Egypt. This bombing marked a pivotal moment, sparking discussions about air travel security measures globally, especially regarding international flights originating from countries with ongoing conflicts, and highlighted the continuing threat of terrorism in the region.