A helicopter transporting officials from a Russian defense plant crashed into a private residence today, resulting in the tragic deaths of four individuals on board due to burns. Three survivors were rescued from the Ka-226 helicopter and promptly taken to a hospital in Russia, with one reported to be in critical condition. The passengers were senior staff members of Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant, which produces ground control systems and equipment for Sukhoi and MiG aircraft and has faced sanctions related to the conflict in Ukraine.
The cause of the crash, labeled a “catastrophe” by the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, remains unknown. The incident occurred in the village of Achi-Su in Dagestan, where witnesses observed the helicopter ablaze in the sky, appearing to search for a safe landing spot before ultimately crashing into a house uncontrollably.
Fortunately, there were no reported casualties on the ground, despite the helicopter igniting and exploding near the Zhemchuzhina recreation center near the Caspian Sea. Initially believed to be a tourist helicopter, it was later clarified that the passengers were employees of the defense plant. Israfil Israfilov, the head of the Dagestan Regional Control Center, confirmed the absence of tourists on board and mentioned ongoing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Ka-226 helicopter is commonly utilized by the Russian military, national guard, and defense industry entities. The flight route from Kizlyar to Izberbash along the Caspian Sea was abruptly interrupted by the tragic accident, prompting immediate efforts to clear the wreckage for a thorough investigation into the crash cause. Preliminary assessments point towards a potential technical malfunction as the primary factor.
Footage from security cameras captured the harrowing moment of the helicopter crash and subsequent flames. An individual was observed fleeing from the site, likely seeking assistance. Eyewitnesses recounted that the helicopter grazed a pier with its tail wing in an attempt to land, then ascended before spiraling out of control and crashing near a seaside residence.
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