Pakistan Army Mi-17 Helicopter Crashes Near Muzaffarabad, All Personnel Martyred

MUZAFFARABAD: A Pakistan Army Aviation Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad on Wednesday shortly after take-off, resulting in the martyrdom of all personnel on board, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The military confirmed that there were no survivors in the tragic accident.

According to the ISPR, the helicopter developed a technical fault during take-off, causing it to crash near Muzaffarabad in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Rescue and recovery teams were immediately dispatched to the site and launched operations soon after the incident. Military officials stated that all personnel aboard embraced martyrdom in the line of duty.

Authorities have ordered a board of inquiry to determine the exact cause of the crash and investigate the technical malfunction that reportedly led to the accident. Officials said the inquiry will examine all operational and technical aspects of the flight before a final report is released.

The Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Army, expressed profound grief over the tragic loss of precious lives. In an official statement, the military paid tribute to the martyred personnel and extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies to their bereaved families.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other senior government officials also expressed sorrow over the tragedy, paying tribute to the sacrifices of the personnel who lost their lives in service to the nation.

The Mi-17 is one of the Pakistan Army's primary transport and utility helicopters, frequently used for troop movement, logistics support, rescue operations, and missions in mountainous regions. The aircraft involved in Wednesday's crash was reportedly engaged in routine operational duties when the accident occurred.

The incident marks one of the deadliest military aviation accidents in recent months and has once again highlighted the challenges associated with operating aircraft in difficult terrain and demanding operational environments. The military has assured that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash.