Latest Helicopter Crash News | Top Helicopter Crash News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Helicopter Crash News Today | English Helicopter Crash News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Helicopter Carrying Pilgrims Crashes Near Kedarnath, Five Dead

June 15, 2025, 9:29 am

A helicopter crashed near Kedarnath in Uttarakhand on Sunday, June 15, 2025. It killed at least five people. There were seven people on board — five adults, a child, and the pilot.

Crash Happened Soon After Takeoff

The helicopter took off from Kedarnath and was flying to Guptkashi. However, it crashed just minutes after taking off. This is the fifth helicopter accident in Uttarakhand within the last 40 days.

Chief Minister Expresses Grief

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reacted to the tragedy on X.
“Very sad news has been received about a helicopter crash in Rudraprayag district. SDRF, local administration and other rescue teams are engaged in relief and rescue operations.”

जनपद रुद्रप्रयाग में हेलीकॉप्टर के दुर्घटनाग्रस्त होने का अत्यंत दुःखद समाचार प्राप्त हुआ है। एसडीआरएफ, स्थानीय प्रशासन एवं अन्य रेस्क्यू दल राहत एवं बचाव कार्यों में जुटे हैं।

बाबा केदार से सभी यात्रियों के सकुशल होने की कामना करता हूँ।

— Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) June 15, 2025

Rescue Teams Act Quickly

Immediately after the crash, emergency teams rushed to the scene. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with local police and rescue workers, began relief and recovery efforts.

Authorities have not confirmed the exact cause. However, initial reports suggest the helicopter went down soon after takeoff.

Char Dham Pilgrimage Adds Pressure

This accident comes during the busy Char Dham pilgrimage season. Many pilgrims use helicopters to reach remote shrines like Kedarnath. Therefore, the incident raises serious concerns about flight safety in the region.

6 Sri Lankan Troops Killed in Helicopter Crash During Training

May 9, 2025, 4:21 pm

Six Sri Lankan soldiers died when a helicopter crashed into the Maduru Oya reservoir while on a training exercise, an Air Force spokesperson confirmed on Friday.

The Bell 212 helicopter was carrying 12 members of the armed forces and crashed while conducting a grappling exercise as part of a military passing-out parade in central Sri Lanka.

Four special forces personnel and two Air Force shooters were killed in action,” said Air Force spokesperson Group Captain Eranda Geeganage.

No reason for the crash has been given by the authorities yet. The Air Force said investigations were underway and information would be given in due course.

Uttarakhand Helicopter Crash: 5 Killed, 3 Injured, Rescue Operations Ongoing | WATCH

May 8, 2025, 10:24 am

A helicopter crash in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi district near Ganganani on Thursday has resulted in the deaths of five passengers and left two others seriously injured. According to reports from news agency ANI, Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey confirmed the fatalities, with rescue and relief operations already underway at the crash site. The incident took place in the border district of Uttarkashi, involving a helicopter that was carrying six passengers and the captain.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

Uttarakhand | Five passengers dead, two seriously injured in a helicopter crash near Ganganani in Uttarkashi district, confirms Garhwal Divisional Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey.

Administration and relief teams are present at the helicopter crash site.

(Photo source:… pic.twitter.com/JKoYpq7z1Q

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025

Authorities responded quickly to the emergency, mobilizing relief teams and emergency medical staff. Visuals from the crash site revealed the mangled wreckage of the helicopter, highlighting the severity of the incident. Emergency services have been working tirelessly to rescue survivors and provide immediate medical attention to the injured passengers. The identity of the victims has not been disclosed, and the cause of the crash is yet to be determined.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his concern over the tragedy, assuring that necessary steps are being taken to provide aid to the injured. “I have instructed the administration to provide all possible help to the injured and investigate the accident,” he said in a statement. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and district administration teams are on the ground to assist with ongoing rescue efforts.

At present, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, and the situation remains under active scrutiny. Further updates are awaited as the cause of the crash is determined and additional information about the incident becomes available.

New York Helicopter Tour Company Closes Ops Following Hudson River Crash

April 14, 2025, 3:25 pm

The helicopter tour firm that was involved in last week’s deadly crash over the Hudson River, which claimed the lives of six people, is shutting down operations, U.S. officials confirmed on Sunday.

The tragic accident killed a senior corporate executive, his wife, and three children, along with the pilot. The family had been on an outing described by the company as the “ultimate sightseeing tour of New York City.”

After the accident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed on X, “New York Helicopter Tours is closing their operations immediately.” The FAA continued, “The FAA will be conducting an immediate review of the tour operator’s license and safety record.”

The crash has called for a closer examination of aviation safety regulations, particularly in the face of a chain of recent airline disasters in the U.S. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is already leading the way in performing an investigation to determine the exact cause as to why the helicopter collapsed.

The officials of Jersey City have proposed a number of reasons as to why the crash occurred, from a collision with a drone, a bird strike, or a mechanical failure. Video footage that emerged depicts the rotor appearing to detach from the fuselage of the helicopter in flight.

This accident follows a string of recent air crashes in the United States. In an earlier incident this year, 67 individuals lost their lives when a military helicopter and a commercial plane collided in Washington. In another incident on Friday, a small plane crashed shortly after it took off from Boca Raton airport in Florida, reportedly as a result of a mechanical issue, killing three individuals.

US Agency Calls for Helicopter Restrictions After Collision

March 12, 2025, 1:47 am

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has made an urgent recommendation to restrict helicopter flights near Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) when certain runways are operational. The move comes after a tragic mid-air collision in January that resulted in 67 deaths.

The Fatal Collision That Prompted Action

On January 29, 2025, an American Airlines passenger jet collided with a Black Hawk military helicopter over the Potomac River, near Washington, D.C. The Black Hawk, carrying three crew members, and the passenger jet, carrying 64 people, crashed into the river, leaving no survivors.

“Intolerable Risk to Aviation Safety”

NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy emphasized that existing flight paths near Reagan Airport’s secondary runways pose an “intolerable risk to aviation safety.” She warned that, at times, aircraft and helicopters could be separated by as little as 75 feet, increasing the risk of further collisions.

FAA’s Response & Temporary Ban on Helicopters

Following the crash, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposed a temporary ban on most helicopters near the airport. However, some exceptions were made for police, medical, and presidential transport helicopters.

The NTSB is now pushing for the FAA to establish alternative flight routes for helicopters, reducing the risk of conflicts between airplanes and helicopters.

Airlines Urge Permanent Helicopter Flight Reductions

Industry group Airlines for America, which represents major U.S. carriers, has urged the FAA to permanently limit helicopter flights near Reagan National. The group is advocating for:

Suspending non-essential helicopter flights near the airport
Reevaluating helicopter routes to prevent potential mid-air conflicts
Expanding safety reviews to other major airports

Transportation Secretary’s Strong Stance

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has also backed restrictions, stating,

“If generals are flying helicopters for convenience, that’s not acceptable. Get a damn Suburban and drive.”

Future of Helicopter Flights Near Reagan National

The FAA is currently reviewing helicopter routes near large airports, considering long-term changes to reduce mid-air collision risks.

The new recommendations aim to enhance safety for both commercial airline passengers and helicopter crews, preventing future tragedies in high-traffic airspace.

Why Didn’t the Helicopter Turn?’: Trump Shifts Blame as Rescuers Search for Survivors

January 30, 2025, 1:00 pm

Even as rescue teams continue their search for survivors in the Potomac River, U.S. President Donald Trump has already started assigning blame for the mid-air collision between an American Airlines aircraft and a U.S. Army helicopter.

The accident occurred on Wednesday night when an American Airlines plane carrying 60 passengers and four crew members collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter with three personnel onboard. The plane was in the process of approaching Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. According to CBS News, a police official confirmed that 18 bodies have been recovered so far.

Hours later after the crash, Trump resorted to spinning the cause on Truth Social by blaming the Army helicopter pilots and air traffic control, respectively.

“The airplane was on a perfect and routine line of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going straight at the airplane for an extended period of time.”. It is a clear night, the lights on the plane were blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This is a bad situation that looks like it should have been prevented. Not good! (sic)” said Trump.

While building the suspense around the chopper crash, Russia’s state-run media also hyped it. RT, a pro-Kremlin media outlet, cited X to say that the variant of Black Hawk the crashed helicopter is usually designed to carry top officials, suggesting that “it probably left from CIA HQ too.”

RT’s claims were, of course, rejected by the U.S. Army.

Fox News Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin reported that the U.S. Army stated: “No senior officials onboard the Blackhawk helicopter that crashed into American Airlines flight near Reagan National Airport.”

Additionally, the U.S. Army confirmed to Griffin that the helicopter was on a training flight.

Helicopter Crash at Turkish Hospital Claims Four Lives Amid Foggy Conditions

December 22, 2024, 4:20 pm

A tragic helicopter crash occurred on Sunday in southwestern Turkey, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including two pilots, a doctor, and a hospital employee. The provincial governor attributed the accident to thick fog that impaired visibility during take-off.

Mugla Provincial Governor Idris Akbiyik reported that the helicopter struck the fourth floor of the hospital as it was taking off from the roof, leading to its subsequent crash. “There was intense fog,” Akbiyik stated, confirming that authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident.

The helicopter was en route to the city of Antalya when it took off under poor visibility conditions. Footage broadcast by NTV showed the helicopter drifting in the fog shortly after take-off before crashing into an empty field adjacent to the hospital.

This incident follows a recent tragedy in Turkey, where six soldiers lost their lives in a collision between two helicopters during an army training exercise in Isparta province. The defense ministry has yet to disclose the cause of that crash.

Helicopter Crash in San Diego County, 1 Dead

December 17, 2024, 11:08 am

A helicopter crash near the U.S.-Mexico border in San Diego County took at least one life on Monday. The accident happened around 11:20 a.m. in Potrero, a rural area, according to Cal Fire officials.

The helicopter crashed in a field close to Round Potrero Road. Within a short period after the accident, emergency responders were reported to have found debris at the site. Cal Fire stated that the helicopter did not belong to them.

There is no official statement regarding the ownership of the helicopter, its flight path, or what may have caused the crash. The victim’s identity is not yet known, but one death was confirmed.

This is the second helicopter crash in San Diego County this year after a separate accident had occurred in February.

Military Response

On February 6, a CH-53E Super Stallion aircraft crashed in East County, killing all five Marines on board. The helicopter had departed from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada and was headed to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and snow, triggered an extensive search and rescue operation.

The February crash had severe implications within the military, with changes in leadership coming in its wake.

Leadership Changes After Marine Crash

Last month, Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commander of Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, was relieved of his duties. The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing explained the decision, stating it was due to “a loss of trust and confidence” in his leadership.

The military did not link Harvey’s dismissal to the February crash but, however, did not mention the reasons for his removal in the official announcement.

Helicopter Crash in Houston’s Second Ward Kills 4 After Hitting Radio Tower : WATCH

October 21, 2024, 1:50 pm

In a tragic event in the United States, a helicopter reportedly crashed into a radio tower in Texas, with footage of the incident going viral on social media.

Reports indicate that at least four individuals, including a child, lost their lives in the crash. The incident took place around 7:54 PM local time when the private R44 helicopter struck the radio tower in the Second Ward of the city, near the intersection of Engelke Street and North Ennis Street. It appeared to have taken off from Ellington Field, which is approximately 15 miles away.

At this time, the identities and ages of the victims have not been disclosed.

BREAKING: Helicopter collides with radio tower in Houston, Texaspic.twitter.com/VGnuTwU9GY

— BNO News Live (@BNODesk) October 21, 2024

Response from Officials

The Houston fire department announced on social media, “PIO is en route to a reported helicopter crash at Engelke & Ennis.” City Councilmember Mario Castillo clarified that the downed helicopter was not part of the Houston Police Department’s fleet, stating, “The helicopter that crashed in Second Ward was not an HPD helicopter; it was a private touring helicopter.” This claim, however, could not be immediately verified.

Emergency Response

Local news outlets reported a significant presence of emergency responders at the crash site. Authorities have urged residents in the vicinity to contact 911 if they discover any debris or items on their property that could assist in the ongoing investigation.

Helicopter Crash in Pune’s Bavdhan Claims Two Lives

October 2, 2024, 9:08 am

In a devastating incident on Wednesday morning, a helicopter carrying three individuals crashed in the Bavdhan area of Pune. According to local police reports, two of the occupants lost their lives in the crash, while the third person’s condition is currently unknown.

Emergency services were dispatched to the scene promptly, and rescue operations are underway. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and have cordoned off the area for safety.

This tragic event has shocked the local community, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

Tragic Helicopter Crash In Pakistan: Six Dead, Eight Injured

September 28, 2024, 6:21 pm

At least six individuals lost their lives in a helicopter crash in northern Pakistan on Saturday, according to security sources. The chartered helicopter, operated by a private company, went down shortly after taking off from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, specifically in the troubled North Waziristan area near the Afghan border.

The helicopter was carrying around 14 passengers, which included Russian pilots. Sources indicated that eight others sustained injuries in the incident and have been hospitalized for treatment.

The region has a history of aviation accidents involving both military and civilian aircraft. Notably, in 2022, a military helicopter crashed during a training exercise in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the deaths of both pilots. Additionally, a Pakistan International Airlines Airbus crashed into a densely populated neighborhood in Karachi in 2020, claiming the lives of most of the 99 passengers on board.

Two Coast Guard Personnel Found Dead After Helicopter Crash, Search for Missing Pilot Continues

September 4, 2024, 9:48 am

The Indian Coast Guard on Tuesday recovered the bodies of two personnel who had gone missing after their Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH Mk-III) crashed into the Arabian Sea near Porbandar the previous night. The helicopter was on a medical evacuation mission when it went down around 11:15 PM on Monday. While one crew member, a flight diver, was rescued earlier in the day, the search for the pilot, Commandant Rakesh Rana, was ongoing as of Tuesday evening.

In response to the incident, the Coast Guard has ordered a one-time safety inspection of its ALH fleet, focusing on flying controls and the transmission system. As a precaution, the fleet has been temporarily grounded. The Coast Guard operates 16 ALHs, which are designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The helicopter in question, with Tail Number CG 863, was launched for the medical evacuation of an injured crew member on board the Indian-flagged motor tanker Hari Leela, located about 45 km from Porbandar. The helicopter ditched into the sea just 15 minutes after takeoff. The same helicopter had recently played a crucial role in rescue operations during the flooding in Gujarat, saving 67 lives.

The search and rescue teams have recovered the bodies of Deputy Commandant Vipin Babu, the helicopter’s co-pilot, and another flight diver. Preliminary reports suggest that the helicopter crashed nose-first into the sea. The wreckage was located, and the flight diver was safely recovered on Tuesday morning.

This incident occurs as the military’s ALH fleet, which has faced several design issues and accidents in recent years, undergoes critical safety upgrades. These upgrades, initiated by HAL, include the replacement of flawed booster control rods with new, more durable steel rods. The ALH fleet has been involved in 13 accidents over the past five years, prompting a comprehensive design review to improve its airworthiness.

Pune: Private Helicopter With 4 Passengers Crashes Near Paud Village

August 24, 2024, 5:48 pm

A private helicopter operated by a private aviation company crashed near Paud village in Pune district while traveling from Juhu, Mumbai, to Hyderabad.

The helicopter had four people on board. Among them, three passengers are in stable condition, while one person, who sustained critical injuries, was rushed to a nearby hospital. Authorities are currently evaluating the situation, according to SP Pankaj Deshmukh of Pune Rural Police.

#UPDATE | Among the 4 people who were in the Helicopter, captain sustained injuries and is hospitalised. The rest of the three persons are in stable condition: SP Pankaj Deshmukh Pune Rural Police https://t.co/9GmQwt2Aku

— ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2024

The helicopter involved in the crash is an AugustaWestland AW139, a twin-engine model with seating for 8 to 12 passengers. Ishwarchandra Gulgule, managing director of Kaigu Aviation Private Limited, suggested that weather conditions might have played a role. “It appears to be a forced landing, possibly due to poor weather. All aircraft, including helicopters, undergo thorough checks by pilots and engineers before take-off,” he explained. This incident follows a similar crash on May 3, where a Bell 407 helicopter went down while attempting to land in Mahad, Raigad district.

Further details are awaited.

Iranian Authorities Identify Crash Location of President Raisi’s Helicopter

May 22, 2024, 6:42 pm

A massive search and rescue mission was initiated, with assistance from the European Union, Russia, and Turkey, before the crash site was found early Monday. On Wednesday, the Iranian military announced that they had utilized domestically produced drones to locate President Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter after it crashed in the northwestern mountains.

The Iranian military reported that a drone sent by Turkey was unable to find the crash site, even though it was equipped with night vision technology. “This drone failed to accurately announce the location of the helicopter crash and finally returned to Turkey.”

“Finally, in the early hours of Monday morning, the exact spot of the helicopter crash was discovered by the ground rescue forces and Iranian drones of the armed forces.”

Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri, has mandated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the helicopter crash. The tragic incident not only claimed the life of the late President Ebrahim Raisi but also resulted in the deaths of seven members of his entourage. Among the victims was Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, adding to the significant loss for the nation.

The inquiry aims to uncover the root causes of the crash and prevent such occurrences in the future.

Raisi’s helicopter crashed on a fog-covered mountainside this past Sunday. The incident occurred while the helicopter was en route back to Tabriz following a ceremonial event held near the Azerbaijan border.

Iran To Hold Snap Presidential Elections On June 28 After President Raisi’s Death

May 21, 2024, 1:22 pm

Following the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on Sunday afternoon, the heads of the three branches of the Iranian government have agreed on June 28 as the date for snap presidential elections, as reported by Press TV.

This decision was confirmed during a meeting held at the Presidency Office in Tehran, with the information cited from an IRNA news report by Press TV. The meeting was attended by Iran’s Head of the Executive Branch Mohammad Mokhber, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i. This gathering marked the second meeting between the three officials within hours of President Raisi’s tragic death in the East Azerbaijan province helicopter crash.

According to Article 131 of the Iranian Constitution, the country’s top three officials are required to arrange presidential elections within 50 days following the death or incapacitation of the sitting president.

Press TV reported that the Monday meeting also included the Iranian deputy president for legal affairs Mohammad Dehghan, deputy chairman of the Guardian Council Siamak Rahpeykand, and deputy interior minister for political affairs Mohammad Taghi Shahcheraghi. A timetable was established for the elections, with hopefuls able to register from May 30 to June 3, and candidates launching their campaigns for 15 days starting June 12.

The helicopter carrying Raisi and his entourage crashed on Sunday afternoon while en route to Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan, from a location on the border with the Republic of Azerbaijan where President Raisi had inaugurated a major dam project. Rescuers discovered the wreckage of the helicopter early on Monday after an extensive search involving more than 70 teams.

The crash also claimed the lives of Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, two senior provincial officials, crew members, and bodyguards. Following this tragic incident, the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, announced five days of national mourning in Iran, as reported by Press TV. Khamenei expressed his sorrow in a message on Monday, stating that he received the “bitter news” of the death of his “companions with great sorrow.”

“Dear Raeisi did not know fatigue,” Ayatollah Khamenei said, emphasizing that the Iranian nation lost a sincere and valuable servant in this tragic incident, according to Press TV.

Iran’s President Dies A Week After ‘Chabahar Port Deal’; PM Modi, EAM Jaishankar Reacts

May 20, 2024, 11:34 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his profound condolences over the tragic demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a fatal helicopter crash. Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi acknowledged Raisi’s significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Iran. He tweeted, “Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening the India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow.”

Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 20, 2024

Meanwhile, Exernal Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar posted on his X, Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at time of this tragedy.”

Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash.

Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024.

Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of…

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) May 20, 2024

The helicopter carrying Raisi and his delegation crashed on Sunday in the Dizmar forest, situated between the cities of Varzaqan and Jolfa in East Azarbaijan Province, according to state media Press TV. Others aboard included the country’s foreign minister, Amir-Abdollahian, East Azarbaijan Governor, Malek Rahmati, Friday Prayers leader of Tabriz city, Seyyed Mohammad Ali Al-e Hashem, and a member of the president’s security team, Mahdi Mousavi, along with the helicopter’s pilot, co-pilot, and crew.

“Nine individuals were on the helicopter during the crash,” as reported by Tasnim News. Raisi and his delegation were returning from a dam inauguration ceremony on the Aras River with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.

“In the wake of the devastating news, the Iranian cabinet convened an emergency session led by Vice President Mohammad Mokhber,” according to Press TV. The tragic accident occurred as Raisi’s chopper encountered heavy fog en route to Tabriz city on Sunday afternoon.

“Reports from Al Jazeera indicated the grim reality of the wreckage, suggesting slim chances of survival in such a catastrophic accident. Iranian authorities mentioned difficulties in identifying the bodies due to severe burns,” as reported by the publication.

“Drone footage captured by the Red Crescent, as shown on state media, depicted the crash site on a steep, wooded hillside, with minimal remnants of the helicopter except for a blue and white tail,” as noted by CNN.

What Is the Chabahar Port Deal?

India and Iran have signed a long-term contract for operating the Shahid-Beheshti Port Terminal in Chabahar. This milestone agreement marks a deepening of ties between the two nations and aims to transform Chabahar Port into a crucial transit hub for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asian countries.

Chabahar Port, a flagship project between India and Iran, serves as a crucial transit point for trade with landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asian countries. India’s involvement in the development and operation of Chabahar Port underscores its commitment to facilitating trade routes for Indian goods destined for Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi and his Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian Die in Helicopter Crash

May 20, 2024, 9:14 am

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister died when their helicopter crashed as it was crossing mountain terrain in heavy fog, reports Reuters citing an Iranian official

“No survivors” were found at the crash site of the helicopter carrying Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, according to Iranian state media on Monday.

“Upon finding the helicopter, there was no sign of the helicopter passengers being alive as of yet,” state TV reported.

After hours of searching through mountainous terrain in challenging weather conditions, rescue teams located the crashed helicopter, which was almost completely destroyed. “President Raisi’s helicopter was completely burned in the crash,” an official told Reuters.

The helicopter crashed in Jolfa, a mountainous region in the northwestern part of the country, on Sunday. The incident occurred as Raisi and his entourage were returning from a visit to Iran’s border with Azerbaijan.

Following Raisi’s death, the next in line for the presidency is First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, pending approval by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

A total of nine people were aboard the helicopter, including Raisi, Abdollahian, three Iranian officials, an imam, and flight and security team members, CNN reported, citing Iranian media. Among the officials was the Governor of Eastern Azerbaijan province, Malek Rahmati.

Search efforts continued through the night and into Monday morning in East Azerbaijan province, hindered by dense fog and extreme cold.

One of Turkey’s ‘Akinci’ drones, sent to assist the rescue operations, reportedly identified a “source of heat suspected to be wreckage” of the helicopter, The Telegraph reported. A burning spot was detected, and rescue forces were dispatched to the area known as ‘Tavil,’ according to Iranian media. The Turkish drone shared its coordinates with Iranian authorities.

In addition to Turkey, Russia plans to send special aircraft and 50 professional mountain rescuers to the crash site to assist in the search operation. Two special Russian helicopters will be dispatched from Armenia, as ordered by Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to Iranian state news agency IRNA.

PM Narendra Modi tweeted, “Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well being of the President and his entourage.”

Deeply concerned by reports regarding President Raisi’s helicopter flight today. We stand in solidarity with the Iranian people in this hour of distress, and pray for well being of the President and his entourage.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 19, 2024

Helicopter crashes near Ukraine; 18 killed among Ukraine internal minister

January 18, 2023, 4:04 pm

In the helicopter crash, 18 people, including Ukraine’s interior affairs minister, were killed on Wednesday. The crash occurred beside a nursery in an eastern suburb of the capital, Kyiv.

Meanwhile, the regional governor said 29 people were also hurt, including 15 children.
Interior Minister Denys Monastyrskyi died along with Yevheniy Yenin and the ministry’s state secretary. Under President Volodymyr Zelensky in 2021 Interior Minister Denys Monastyrskyi was appointed.

“As a result of the crash in Brovary, the leadership of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine was killed. They were in the helicopter of the State Emergency Service,” police chief Ihor Klymenko said.

However, on social media, a video was shared in which a building was burning and people could be heard screaming.

“There were children and … staff in the nursery at the time of this tragedy,” Kyiv region governor Oleksiy Kuleba said.

“Unfortunately this happened with a state emergency service helicopter which was fulfilling its task,” Air force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat

However, after the incident there was no immediate comment from Russia and Ukrainian officials have also not made any reference to any Russian attack in the area at the time.

Helicopter crashes near Ukraine; 18 killed among Ukraine interior ministry

January 18, 2023, 3:25 pm

In the helicopter crash, 18 people, including Ukraine’s interior affairs minister, were killed on Wednesday. The crash occurred beside a nursery in an eastern suburb of the capital, Kyiv. Meanwhile, in the helicopter crash, three children were killed, and 15 more are being treated in hospitals.