Is Azal Airlines reliable for international travel in terms of punctuality and safety?

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) is known for adhering to international safety standards, including certifications like IATA’s Operational Safety Audit (IOSA).

It has a strong safety record, with its last major incident reported in 2005. However, recent events, such as the Embraer 190 crash in Kazakhstan in 2024 that resulted in 38 fatalities, have raised concerns.

Investigations suggest external interference, including the possibility of a missile, as the cause. Despite this, AZAL continues to maintain a solid safety reputation in international aviation.

In terms of punctuality and service quality, AZAL has received mixed reviews. Data shows that about 18% of flights experience delays exceeding 15 minutes.

Customer feedback on Xolvie highlights issues like flight delays, lack of timely notifications, and challenges in securing refunds or compensation. Such concerns indicate room for improvement in customer service and operational efficiency.

Given these factors, AZAL remains a reliable airline for international travel but may require passengers to be flexible with travel plans.

Customers are advised to check reviews, monitor schedules closely, and maintain clear communication with the airline for a smoother travel experience.