Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 217 was operating an Antonov An-140 aircraft on a scheduled service from Baku to Aktau. The flight was carrying a total of 23 individuals, including passengers and crew. Shortly after takeoff, the plane encountered adverse weather conditions, which complicated navigation and control. Local reports suggest that heavy fog and turbulence were present in the Caspian Sea region at the time of departure, which could have significantly affected visibility and aircraft performance. As the flight progressed, air traffic control lost contact with the aircraft, and it was later confirmed that the airplane had crashed into the Caspian Sea.

Search and rescue operations began immediately following the loss of contact, with local authorities mobilizing ships and aircraft to locate the wreckage. Unfortunately, despite efforts, all 23 people on board were confirmed deceased. The wreckage was eventually located, and investigations were initiated by aviation authorities to determine the specific causes of the accident. Factors such as weather conditions and potential pilot error were key areas of focus in the subsequent inquiry. The tragedy raised significant concerns regarding flight safety measures in the region, especially pertaining to routes across challenging terrains and bodies of water.

The crash of Flight 217 not only impacted the families of those who perished but also reverberated through the aviation community, prompting calls for enhanced safety protocols and better training for pilots in handling adverse weather conditions. This incident underscored the risks associated with flying in difficult environments and led to discussions around regulations and safety standards in the aviation sector, particularly for older aircraft models like the Antonov An-140.