20 February – International Day of Remembrance for Victims of Aviation Accidents and Their Families
Every year, 20 February is observed internationally as the International Day of Remembrance for Victims of Aviation Accidents and Their Families. This Day was established in 2021 by a resolution adopted at the 40th Session of the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The Day is dedicated to honoring the memory of those who have lost their lives in aviation accidents, showing solidarity with their families, and reaffirming the global commitment to enhancing flight safety.
Despite the continuous advancement of technology and safety systems, aviation accidents can still have devastating consequences for families and society. Providing psychological, social, and legal support to the relatives of victims is therefore of critical importance.
The International Day of Remembrance also serves as a platform for professional dialogue and the exchange of best practices. On 27 January this year, a joint regional seminar organized by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) and ICAO was held in Madrid. The Azerbaijani delegation was represented by “Azerbaijan Airlines” Closed Joint-Stock Company (“Azerbaijan Airlines”) . The seminar focused on new strategies to prevent aviation accidents and further strengthen flight safety.
Honoring the victims of aviation accidents contributes to building a safer and responsible aviation system. This Day is not only an occasion for remembrance, but also a renewed call to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
On this solemn occasion, we also remember with profound sorrow the victims of the tragedy that occurred on 25 December 2024. On that day, an “Embraer 190” aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines on the Baku–Grozny route crashed. Of the 67 people on board, 38 lost their lives, and 29 sustained injuries of varying severity. A national day of mourning was declared in response to this tragedy.
On the International Day of Remembrance, we pay tribute to all those who have lost their lives in aviation accidents, including the victims of the 2024 tragedy, and we express our support and solidarity to their families and loved ones.
May our skies always be safe, and our flights always successful!