What Caused the Crash of the Pakistani Army Helicopter in Gilgit-Baltistan?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A tragic helicopter crash in Gilgit-Baltistan results in the loss of five lives. This incident raises questions about aviation safety in the region. Join us as we delve into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event and its implications for future air travel in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- All five crew members lost their lives in the helicopter crash.
- The helicopter was conducting a test landing at a new helipad.
- Emergency services responded swiftly to the crash site.
- Authorities are investigating the cause, considering technical failures as a possibility.
- This incident follows a similar tragedy earlier this month in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Islamabad, Sep 1 (NationPress) A Pakistani government helicopter met with a tragic accident in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, specifically in the Diamer district, on Monday, resulting in the deaths of all five crew members aboard, as reported by local media sources citing official statements.
As per reports from the prominent Pakistani daily, Dawn, the downed helicopter was part of the Pakistani Army and crashed in Chilas town within the Diamer district.
“The incident resulted in five fatalities,” confirmed Diamer Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Abdul Hameed in an official statement.
The SSP elaborated that the helicopter was engaged in a test landing procedure at a newly-proposed helipad when the incident transpired.
“Emergency services and police from Diamer promptly reached the crash site to facilitate evacuation efforts,” he further stated.
In the aftermath of the crash, key officials including the FCNA Commander, DG GB Scouts, and the Commissioner of Diamer, along with numerous local residents, rushed to the scene as rescue teams worked diligently to extinguish the fire that erupted from the helicopter, according to the local media outlet, Dunya News.
Authorities have yet to ascertain the cause of the crash, although they indicated a potential “technical failure” as a possibility.
Information officer Faraq described the crash as “regrettable” and offered condolences for the loss of life.
Local leader Haji Gulbar Khan confirmed the incident, stating, “The Army Aviation helicopter crashed in the Hadar area of Diamer due to a technical fault.”
He instructed officials to declare an emergency at Chilas Hospital and mandated medical staff to be on standby.
This incident follows another army helicopter crash earlier in the month in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district, which resulted in the death of two pilots and three crew members.
The earlier helicopter had been dispatched with relief supplies due to recent flash flooding in the area.
In 2024, at least six individuals lost their lives, with eight others suffering serious injuries when a helicopter linked to a petroleum company crashed near the Shewa oil field in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan, as reported by local media.
Point of View
It is paramount to acknowledge the loss of life and the ongoing need for aviation safety in Pakistan. This tragic incident not only reflects on the technical challenges faced by the military aviation sector but also brings to light the necessity for improved safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future. The nation mourns the loss of these brave individuals.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the helicopter crash in Gilgit-Baltistan?
While the exact cause is still under investigation, officials have indicated that a potential technical failure may have contributed to the crash.
How many crew members were on board the helicopter?
There were five crew members on board the helicopter, and unfortunately, all of them lost their lives in the incident.
Where did the helicopter crash occur?
The helicopter crashed in the Chilas town of Diamer district in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan.
What actions were taken following the crash?
Emergency services and local police quickly arrived at the crash site to assist with evacuation and manage the situation.
Is this the first helicopter crash in Pakistan this month?
No, this incident follows another helicopter crash in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bajaur district earlier this month, which also resulted in fatalities.
