In the early hours of January 18, 2025, an Aeroflot Boeing 737 made an emergency landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku, Azerbaijan, following a passenger’s medical emergency.
The Boeing 737-800, with registration RA-73115 was operating flight SU524 from Moscow Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) to Dubai International Airport (DXB). According to FlightRadar24 data, the aircraft departed from Moscow at 11:41 PM UTC (2:41 AM local time).
However, while the flight RA-73115 was cruising at an altitude of 36,000 feet, the crew reported a medical emergency. Acting swiftly, the captain diverted the flight to the nearest suitable airport. Following the emergency, the aircraft landed safely in Baku at 2:27 AM UTC (6:27 AM local time).
Upon landing, the passenger in distress was met by emergency medical personnel, who provided immediate care. The 11.3-year-old aircraft departed from Baku at 4:41 AM UTC and continued to Dubai.
Operational Preparedness at Baku Airport
The quick and efficient response by Heydar Aliyev International Airport highlights the facility’s high level of preparedness. The airport regularly conducts emergency response drills to ensure its staff can manage unforeseen situations effectively.
“Ensuring passenger safety is our highest priority. Our emergency response team is trained to handle medical diversions swiftly, minimizing disruption to both the affected individual and other travelers,” said an airport spokesperson.
Aeroflot operates regular flights between Moscow and Dubai using a mix of narrowbody and widebody aircraft.
Aeroflot Diversions to Baku
This isn’t the first time an Aeroflot flight has diverted to Baku. In December 2024, another Aeroflot flight from Dubai to Moscow made an emergency landing at the same airport after an unruly passenger disrupted the flight.
The passenger, reportedly intoxicated, caused significant commotion and even attempted to break a window, forcing the crew to intervene and the captain to divert. These incidents highlight the vital role played by strategically located airports like Heydar Aliyev International Airport in ensuring passenger safety.
Editor’s Take: Aeroflot Boeing 737 Emergency Landing
Emergency situations, whether medical or behavioral, test the efficiency of airlines and airports alike. The quick decision-making by the Aeroflot crew and the readiness of Baku’s airport staff exemplify the collaborative efforts needed to maintain safety and minimize risks during air travel.
As Aeroflot and other carriers continue to prioritize passenger safety, airports like Heydar Aliyev serve as vital partners, ensuring seamless handling of emergencies. For travelers, it’s a reminder of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making aviation one of the safest modes of transport today.
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