A Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of all personnel on board, according to reports citing Pakistan’s military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The helicopter was said to have taken off on a routine mission before encountering difficulties shortly after departure. Preliminary information released by the military indicates that the aircraft may have suffered a technical malfunction, leading to the fatal crash.
Rescue teams and security personnel were rushed to the crash site soon after the incident. However, officials confirmed that none of the crew members survived the accident. The identities of those killed had not been officially disclosed at the time of reporting.
The Pakistan Army has ordered an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Aviation experts and military investigators are expected to examine the wreckage and review flight data as part of the inquiry.
The Mi-17 is a widely used military transport helicopter employed for troop movement, logistics, rescue operations and other missions in mountainous regions. Helicopter accidents involving military aircraft in Pakistan have occurred periodically over the years, with adverse weather conditions and technical issues often cited among the contributing factors.
The latest incident has prompted condolences from across Pakistan, while military authorities continue efforts to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
