Azerbaijan Airlines, also known as AZAL, is the national flag carrier of Azerbaijan. The airline was established in 1923 as the Azerbaijan State Air Enterprise, making it one of the oldest airlines in the world still in operation. In 1992, after the fall of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan Airlines was established as the national airline of the newly independent republic.

AZAL operates flights to over 30 different destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The airline’s current fleet consists of 19 aircrafts, including Airbus A320s, Boeing 737s, and Bombardier CRJ900s. Azerbaijan Airlines also operates four cargo aircrafts, including two Boeing 747s, one Airbus A300F, and one Antonov An-12.

Azerbaijan Airlines has gone through several transformations over the years, including a major restructuring in 2005. The restructuring included the formation of two new companies: AZAL Cargo and AZAL Avia Service. AZAL Cargo is responsible for the airline’s cargo operations, while AZAL Avia Service is responsible for ground operations.

The airline has also seen many important milestones throughout its history. In 1996, Azerbaijan Airlines became the first airline from the former Soviet Union to join the International Air Transport Association (IATA). In 2004, the airline took delivery of its first Boeing 767, making it the first airline in the region to have a wide-bodied jetliner in its fleet. In 2008, the airline took delivery of its first Airbus A320, making it the first airline from the former Soviet Union to operate an Airbus aircraft. In 2009, AZAL launched flights from Baku to Istanbul, making it the first direct passenger flight between the two countries.

Unfortunately, there have been several incidents involving Azerbaijan Airlines, including two air crashes. The first crash occurred in 2002, when an An-24 aircraft crashed near Baku, killing all 23 people onboard. The second crash occurred in 2006, when an An-140 aircraft crashed near Stepanakert, killing all 33 people onboard. Both crashes were attributed to pilot error.

In 2017, the airline was subject to a federal investigation by the US Department of Transportation. The investigation focused on allegations that the airline had violated US regulations with regards to the treatment of passengers with disabilities. The investigation ultimately found that the airline had violated the regulations and was ordered to pay a fine of $50,000.

Throughout its long history, Azerbaijan Airlines has gone through many changes and has seen many milestones. The airline has evolved from a small regional carrier to a major international airline, and continues to be a leader in the region. Despite the occasional setback, AZAL has become a reliable and respected carrier, providing safe and reliable air service to passengers around the world.