Video: OC Media Facebook Page
Early reports of the crash were quickly accompanied by footage shared across various media outlets in Azerbaijan and Georgia, depicting a large aircraft in distress. While the authenticity of these videos remains unconfirmed by official sources, they have significantly fueled public discussion and anxiety surrounding the tragic event. OC Media and T24 reported on the emerging visuals, highlighting the speed at which information, both verified and unverified, is disseminating in the wake of such incidents. The Georgian Interior Ministry stated the crash occurred approximately 5 kilometers from the border in the Sighnaghi municipality, and has launched an investigation into the violation of safety or operation rules of air transport that resulted in the loss of human life. The Ministry added that a total of 20 personnel were on board the aircraft.Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was quick to extend his deepest condolences to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, expressing profound sadness over the loss of servicemen. "We were deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of servicemen in the crash of a Turkish Air Force military cargo plane," Aliyev stated, as reported by Azertac, offering solace to the families and loved ones of the deceased and the fraternal people of Türkiye. Flightradar24, a real-time aircraft tracker, indicated the plane is believed to have departed from Ganja Airport at 14:19 local time. Georgian TV Imedi has also published an article featuring a photograph allegedly from the crash site, further illustrating the unfolding tragedy. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is closely monitoring search and rescue operations with Georgian authorities, while Georgian Interior Minister Gela Geladze visited the crash site in the immediate aftermath. President Erdoğan, in his initial statement, expressed deep sorrow and offered prayers for what he referred to as "martyrs," suggesting fatalities.
The incident underscores the close military collaboration between Turkey and Azerbaijan, a partnership that has significantly strengthened since the latest Nagorno-Karabakh war. This alliance has seen frequent joint military exercises, strategic cooperation, and high-level visits. In fact, many Turkish Armed Forces personnel had traveled to Baku and Ganja for Azerbaijan's State Flag Day on November 9th, with the crashed C130 potentially carrying returning personnel. The robust defense ties are a critical component of regional stability for both nations, making any incident involving their military assets a matter of significant concern for both Ankara and Baku. This crash will undoubtedly lead to a thorough examination of air transport safety protocols within their military cooperation framework.
Photo: DHA, T24