Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto.

The helicopter had been on a visit to military personnel who were deployed in northwest Kenya to fight the endemic cattle rustling.&nbsp;

The incident occurred minutes after the aircraft left Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County, said Ruto.

"Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident... I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla," he said.

"Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals," he told a news conference. "The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me... A distinguished four-star general has fallen in the course of duty, and service to country."

However, he said two soldiers who survived the crash were rushed to hospital further adding that a probe was launched into the matter to ascertain the cause behind the incident.

Ogolla, who previously used to head the Kenyan Air Force, became the deputy military chief before being promoted to the position of Kenya's military chief.

Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in the year 1984, where he trained as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF), as per a Defence Ministry profile.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto.

Ten people, including Kenya's defence chief lost their lives in a helicopter crash on Thursday (Apr 18) after the aircraft came down minutes after take-off, announced President William Ruto. The helicopter had been on a visit to military personnel who were deployed in northwest Kenya to fight the endemic cattle rustling. The incident occurred minutes after the aircraft left Cheptulel Boys Secondary School in West Pokot County, said Ruto. "Today at 2:20 pm, our nation suffered a tragic air accident... I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla," he said. "Our motherland has lost one of her most valiant generals," he told a news conference. "The demise of General Ogolla is a painful loss to me... A distinguished four-star general has fallen in the course of duty, and service to country." However, he said two soldiers who survived the crash were rushed to hospital further adding that a probe was launched into the matter to ascertain the cause behind the incident. Ogolla, who previously used to head the Kenyan Air Force, became the deputy military chief before being promoted to the position of Kenya's military chief. Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces in the year 1984, where he trained as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF), as per a Defence Ministry profile. (With inputs from agencies)

Kenya military helicopter crashes with defence chief on board: Police

A tragic incident unfolded at the INS Garuda naval air station in Kochi in the Indian state of Kerala as a chopper accident killed a navy sailor on Saturday (Nov 4).&nbsp;Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and all other officers paid their tributes to Yogendra Singh, LAM (Leading Air Mechanic).&nbsp;

"Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS &amp; all personnel of #IndianNavy mourn the loss of life &amp; pay tribute to Yogendra Singh, LAM who lost his life in the unfortunate accident at Kochi and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family," the Indian Navy spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The incident occurred during a routine training flight when the Indian Navy helicopter was met with a mechanical failure, PTI news agency said.&nbsp;

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According to Navy authorities, it was a ground accident when the Chetak helicopter encountered an accident during ground maintenance inspections.&nbsp;The helicopter reportedly had an accident at approximately 2:30 pm on Saturday (Nov 4).

"A Chetak helicopter met with a ground accident today during maintenance taxi checks at INS Garuda, Kochi, resulting in the unfortunate loss of life of one ground crew."

<h2>Investigation underway</h2>

In response to the accident, the Indian Navy has initiated a Board of Inquiry to investigate the exact cause of the failure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"A Board of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident," the Indian Navy spokesperson added. The Indian Navy is awaiting further information and details related to the incident.

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Adm R Hari Kumar <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CNS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CNS</a> &amp; all personnel of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> mourn the loss of life &amp; pay tribute to Yogendra Singh, LAM who lost his life in the unfortunate accident at Kochi and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. <a href="https://t.co/83ZmXbsuqc">https://t.co/83ZmXbsuqc</a> <a href="https://t.co/m9yyDM4JQM">pic.twitter.com/m9yyDM4JQM</a>
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Located near INS Venduruthy and serving as the headquarters for the Southern Naval Command, INS Garuda is a significant naval air training centre and an operational base.

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It possesses two intersecting runways that enable various operational aircraft to land and take off. It plays a crucial role as a strategic operating facility for the Indian Navy as it accommodates numerous training schools, intelligence centres, maintenance and repair facilities, as well as experimental stations.&nbsp;INS Garuda was commissioned on May 11, 1953, and is the oldest operating air station of the Indian Navy.

(With inputs from agencies)

A tragic incident unfolded at the INS Garuda naval air station in Kochi in the Indian state of Kerala as a chopper accident killed a navy sailor on Saturday (Nov 4).

A tragic incident unfolded at the INS Garuda naval air station in Kochi in the Indian state of Kerala as a chopper accident killed a navy sailor on Saturday (Nov 4). Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar and all other officers paid their tributes to Yogendra Singh, LAM (Leading Air Mechanic). "Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS & all personnel of #IndianNavy mourn the loss of life & pay tribute to Yogendra Singh, LAM who lost his life in the unfortunate accident at Kochi and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family," the Indian Navy spokesperson said. The incident occurred during a routine training flight when the Indian Navy helicopter was met with a mechanical failure, PTI news agency said. Also Read | PM Modi launches scathing attacks on Bhupesh Baghel after ED linked him to betting app deal According to Navy authorities, it was a ground accident when the Chetak helicopter encountered an accident during ground maintenance inspections. The helicopter reportedly had an accident at approximately 2:30 pm on Saturday (Nov 4). "A Chetak helicopter met with a ground accident today during maintenance taxi checks at INS Garuda, Kochi, resulting in the unfortunate loss of life of one ground crew." Investigation underway In response to the accident, the Indian Navy has initiated a Board of Inquiry to investigate the exact cause of the failure. Also Read | India | Centre to extend free ration scheme for next five years: PM Modi tells poll rally "A Board of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident," the Indian Navy spokesperson added. The Indian Navy is awaiting further information and details related to the incident. Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS & all personnel of #IndianNavy mourn the loss of life & pay tribute to Yogendra Singh, LAM who lost his life in the unfortunate accident at Kochi and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. https://t.co/83ZmXbsuqc pic.twitter.com/m9yyDM4JQM — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) November 4, 2023 × Located near INS Venduruthy and serving as the headquarters for the Southern Naval Command, INS Garuda is a significant naval air training centre and an operational base. Watch | At least 132 dead and over 140 injured as earthquake rocks Nepal × It possesses two intersecting runways that enable various operational aircraft to land and take off. It plays a crucial role as a strategic operating facility for the Indian Navy as it accommodates numerous training schools, intelligence centres, maintenance and repair facilities, as well as experimental stations. INS Garuda was commissioned on May 11, 1953, and is the oldest operating air station of the Indian Navy. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian navy sailor killed in helicopter accident at Kochi naval air station

In a tragic incident, a Pakistan Navy helicopter crashed in the southwestern city of Gwadar, Balochistan province, resulting in the loss of three crew members' lives, media reports said. The military reportedly disclosed that the crash was likely caused by a mechanical fault. The ill-fated helicopter was engaged in a training flight when the incident occurred. Gwadar, a port city, and the broader Balochistan province have been marred by a long-standing separatist insurgency that involves various ethnic Baloch nationalist groups that seek greater autonomy or even complete independence from Pakistan.

These separatist groups argue that the resources in Balochistan, including natural gas and minerals, are being exploited by the Pakistani government without sufficient benefit to the local population. This conflict makes it a challenging operational area for the military.

<h2>Engine fire during takeoff</h2>

The Sea King aircraft experienced a catastrophic event during takeoff at approximately 10:00 am local time (0500 GMT). It suffered an engine fire and lost its rear tail, as indicated in a preliminary report obtained by AFP from a military source.

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The crash, believed to result from a technical malfunction, claimed the lives of two officers and one enlisted man, according to the navy spokesman quoted by AFP news agency.&nbsp;

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, remains heavily militarised due to significant Chinese investment projects in the area, which frequently become targets for separatist militant activities.

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Footage of the Pakistan navy's helicopter crash in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gwadar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gwadar</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Balochistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Balochistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/tb6k8YoY8J">pic.twitter.com/tb6k8YoY8J</a>
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The insurgency has led to a complex security situation, with sporadic acts of violence, attacks on security forces, and disruptions to infrastructure projects, including those related to CPEC.

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As a result, the military has to maintain a significant presence and conduct counterinsurgency operations in the region to safeguard security and maintain stability, particularly in and around Gwadar.

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The challenging security environment can make routine military activities, such as training flights, riskier and more demanding.

<h2>Previous tragedies</h2>

This unfortunate incident comes after other helicopter crashes in Balochistan. Just last September, six servicemen lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Khost, a small town in the province. Additionally, a month earlier than that, six more servicemen, including one of the army's top commanders, were killed when their helicopter crashed while participating in flood relief operations in Balochistan.

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In a tragic incident, a Pakistan Navy helicopter crashed in the southwestern city of Gwadar, Balochistan province, resulting in the loss of three crew members' lives, media reports said.

In a tragic incident, a Pakistan Navy helicopter crashed in the southwestern city of Gwadar, Balochistan province, resulting in the loss of three crew members' lives, media reports said. The military reportedly disclosed that the crash was likely caused by a mechanical fault. The ill-fated helicopter was engaged in a training flight when the incident occurred. Gwadar, a port city, and the broader Balochistan province have been marred by a long-standing separatist insurgency that involves various ethnic Baloch nationalist groups that seek greater autonomy or even complete independence from Pakistan. These separatist groups argue that the resources in Balochistan, including natural gas and minerals, are being exploited by the Pakistani government without sufficient benefit to the local population. This conflict makes it a challenging operational area for the military. Engine fire during takeoff The Sea King aircraft experienced a catastrophic event during takeoff at approximately 10:00 am local time (0500 GMT). It suffered an engine fire and lost its rear tail, as indicated in a preliminary report obtained by AFP from a military source. Also Read | Microsoft's WordPad, launched in 1995, set to be removed from Windows The crash, believed to result from a technical malfunction, claimed the lives of two officers and one enlisted man, according to the navy spokesman quoted by AFP news agency. Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, remains heavily militarised due to significant Chinese investment projects in the area, which frequently become targets for separatist militant activities. Footage of the Pakistan navy's helicopter crash in #Gwadar of #Balochistan pic.twitter.com/tb6k8YoY8J — Wajul Baloch 🍁 واجو (@KaltNamu79407) September 4, 2023 × The insurgency has led to a complex security situation, with sporadic acts of violence, attacks on security forces, and disruptions to infrastructure projects, including those related to CPEC. Also Read | Convicted Proud Boys member claims Trump will pardon him in 2024 As a result, the military has to maintain a significant presence and conduct counterinsurgency operations in the region to safeguard security and maintain stability, particularly in and around Gwadar. Watch | Labour reshuffle: Sir Keir Starmer to shake up shadow cabinet × The challenging security environment can make routine military activities, such as training flights, riskier and more demanding. Previous tragedies This unfortunate incident comes after other helicopter crashes in Balochistan. Just last September, six servicemen lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Khost, a small town in the province. Additionally, a month earlier than that, six more servicemen, including one of the army's top commanders, were killed when their helicopter crashed while participating in flood relief operations in Balochistan. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Video: Pakistan Navy helicopter crash kills 3 crew members

After months of criticism and allegations of taxpayers' money being wasted the UK government has shelved plans to spend almost 50 million dollars on contracts for helicopters. These helicopters were used by the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his ministers for travelling.

UK PM Rishi Sunak's helicopter transport contract shelved

Nearly a week after an Australian military helicopter crashed in Queensland, unidentified human remains of the four crew members have been found, the authorities said Thursday (August 3).

The Australian defence force said more debris had been found, including the helicopter's cockpit, about 40 metres underwater.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The debris field is consistent with a catastrophic, high impact,”&nbsp;Lt Gen Greg Bilton, the chief of joint operations said.&nbsp;

“Sadly I can confirm unidentified human remains have also been observed in this location by the remotely operated underwater vehicle," he added.&nbsp;

While human remains have been found, the authorities are yet to find the black box, crucial to explaining the tragedy.&nbsp;

“It’s a difficult task but we’ll do our absolute best to find it and, as you know, the black box is critical to helping us to understand what’s actually taken place,” Bilton said.

Initially, the search team's efforts had been hampered by strong currents and poor weather. However, on Monday, the Australian government said the hopes of finding the four crew members alive had been lost.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-ground-fleet-of-taipan-helicopters-after-tragic-crash-incident-620966">Also read |&nbsp;Australia to ground fleet of Taipan helicopters after military drill crash leaves 4 dead</a>

Lt Maxwell Nugent, Capt Daniel Lyon, Cpl Alexander Naggs and WO Class Two Joseph Phillip Laycock were aboard the helicopter when it crashed during the&nbsp;Talisman Sabre training exercise.

It was an extensive event involving 30,000 military personnel from various nations, such as&nbsp;Fiji, France, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, the United Kingdom, Canada and Germany.

The crash reportedly&nbsp;occurred near the Whitsunday Islands during a nighttime operation, resulting in a catastrophic impact.

Also watch |&nbsp;Australia: Four feared dead following military helicopter crash

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<h2>Helicopters grounded</h2>

After the crash, Canberra announced it was grounding its fleet of over three dozen Taipan helicopters until an investigation into the crash is concluded by the authorities.&nbsp;

Past complaints regarding the European-made Taipans' maintenance and spare parts were mentioned by Australian officials. The Down Under country plans to replace the aged helicopters with&nbsp;40 US Black Hawk helicopters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Nearly a week after an Australian military helicopter crashed in Queensland, unidentified human remains of the four crew members have been found, the authorities said Thursday (August 3).

Nearly a week after an Australian military helicopter crashed in Queensland, unidentified human remains of the four crew members have been found, the authorities said Thursday (August 3). The Australian defence force said more debris had been found, including the helicopter's cockpit, about 40 metres underwater. “The debris field is consistent with a catastrophic, high impact,” Lt Gen Greg Bilton, the chief of joint operations said. “Sadly I can confirm unidentified human remains have also been observed in this location by the remotely operated underwater vehicle," he added. While human remains have been found, the authorities are yet to find the black box, crucial to explaining the tragedy. “It’s a difficult task but we’ll do our absolute best to find it and, as you know, the black box is critical to helping us to understand what’s actually taken place,” Bilton said. Initially, the search team's efforts had been hampered by strong currents and poor weather. However, on Monday, the Australian government said the hopes of finding the four crew members alive had been lost. Also read | Australia to ground fleet of Taipan helicopters after military drill crash leaves 4 dead Lt Maxwell Nugent, Capt Daniel Lyon, Cpl Alexander Naggs and WO Class Two Joseph Phillip Laycock were aboard the helicopter when it crashed during the Talisman Sabre training exercise. It was an extensive event involving 30,000 military personnel from various nations, such as Fiji, France, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, the United Kingdom, Canada and Germany. The crash reportedly occurred near the Whitsunday Islands during a nighttime operation, resulting in a catastrophic impact. Also watch | Australia: Four feared dead following military helicopter crash Helicopters grounded After the crash, Canberra announced it was grounding its fleet of over three dozen Taipan helicopters until an investigation into the crash is concluded by the authorities. Past complaints regarding the European-made Taipans' maintenance and spare parts were mentioned by Australian officials. The Down Under country plans to replace the aged helicopters with 40 US Black Hawk helicopters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Human remains found of Australian army helicopter crew that crashed at sea

Nepal has imposed a restriction on helicopters, banning them from conducting "non-essential" flights in the aftermath of a deadly crash in the Everest region. All six on board, including five Mexican nationals, died in a helicopter crash in Nepal on Tuesday after it lost contact.

Helicopter crash in Nepal: Authority bans `non-essential` flights after deadly crash

The five Mexican nationals killed in a helicopter crash in eastern Nepal near Mount Everest on Tuesday had visited India before touring the Himalayan nation for sightseeing.

The Manang Air helicopter 9N-AMV took off from Surke Airport in Solukhumbu district at 10:04 am for Kathmandu on Tuesday and suddenly lost contact at an altitude above 12,000 feet at 10.13 am (local time).

The helicopter crashed in the Lamjura area of Likhupike Rural Municipality in the remote mountainous Solukhumbu district.

The dead pilot has been identified as Captain CB Gurung, a Nepali national. The five passengers killed in the crash — all of them Mexican nationals — were identified as Fernando Sifuentes (95), Abril Sifuentes Gonzalez (72), Luz Gonzalez Olacio (65), Maria Jose Sifuentes (52) and Ismael Rincon (98).

The family had also visited India as one of the victims, Abril Sifuentes Gonzalez, on July 5 posted a photo of herself on a social media platform in front of the Taj Mahal days before the accident.

Mexico's Ambassador to India Federico Salas said that the victims were family members originally from Nuevo Leon, according to Mexican News Daily.

"It was a family of five people, in effect, who were tourists. They went to Nepal. (...) They were a father and mother and three children. (...) The parents and children were adults, they were not little ones", Salas was quoted as saying by the Infobae Mexico.

Meanwhile, the bodies have been airlifted to Kathmandu and are kept at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital for post-mortem, Gyanendra Bhul, Information Officer at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), The Himalayan Times newspaper was quoted as saying.

Speaking to the media in Janakpurdham, Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Sudan Kirati announced that the government would conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover the factors that led to this unfortunate incident.

"All the passengers who died were from the same Mexican family and had flown to the Khumbu region yesterday for mountain flight as well to observe Sherpa culture," Director of Manang Air, Mukti Pandey said.

Nepal's tourist and mountaineering season ended in May. The flights carrying tourists to the mountains are less common this time of year as visibility is poor and weather conditions fickle.

Founded in 1997, Manang Air is a helicopter airline based in Kathmandu. It has been operating helicopters in commercial air transportation within the Nepalese territory under the Regulation of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

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The company provides chartered services and is focused on personalised services such as adventure flights, helicopter excursions or expedition work.

Nepal has had a fraught record of aviation accidents, partly due to its sudden weather changes and airstrips located in hard-to-access rocky terrains.

According to the record of CAAN, 35 fatal helicopter crashes have occurred in Nepal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-journalist-fired-for-asking-questions-to-pm-shehabz-sharif-about-freedom-of-expression-report-614376">Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report</a>

In 2023 alone, four helicopter crashes were reported in the country.

In early May, a Simrik Air helicopter crashed in Sankhuwasabha district resulting in the tragic death of one passenger, while four others sustained injuries. Likewise, Heli Everest and Air Dynasty helicopters crashed this year, but there was no casualty.'

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The five Mexican nationals killed in a helicopter crash in eastern Nepal near Mount Everest on Tuesday had visited India before touring the Himalayan nation for sightseeing.

The five Mexican nationals killed in a helicopter crash in eastern Nepal near Mount Everest on Tuesday had visited India before touring the Himalayan nation for sightseeing. The Manang Air helicopter 9N-AMV took off from Surke Airport in Solukhumbu district at 10:04 am for Kathmandu on Tuesday and suddenly lost contact at an altitude above 12,000 feet at 10.13 am (local time). The helicopter crashed in the Lamjura area of Likhupike Rural Municipality in the remote mountainous Solukhumbu district. The dead pilot has been identified as Captain CB Gurung, a Nepali national. The five passengers killed in the crash — all of them Mexican nationals — were identified as Fernando Sifuentes (95), Abril Sifuentes Gonzalez (72), Luz Gonzalez Olacio (65), Maria Jose Sifuentes (52) and Ismael Rincon (98). The family had also visited India as one of the victims, Abril Sifuentes Gonzalez, on July 5 posted a photo of herself on a social media platform in front of the Taj Mahal days before the accident. Mexico's Ambassador to India Federico Salas said that the victims were family members originally from Nuevo Leon, according to Mexican News Daily. "It was a family of five people, in effect, who were tourists. They went to Nepal. (...) They were a father and mother and three children. (...) The parents and children were adults, they were not little ones", Salas was quoted as saying by the Infobae Mexico. Meanwhile, the bodies have been airlifted to Kathmandu and are kept at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital for post-mortem, Gyanendra Bhul, Information Officer at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), The Himalayan Times newspaper was quoted as saying. Speaking to the media in Janakpurdham, Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Sudan Kirati announced that the government would conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover the factors that led to this unfortunate incident. "All the passengers who died were from the same Mexican family and had flown to the Khumbu region yesterday for mountain flight as well to observe Sherpa culture," Director of Manang Air, Mukti Pandey said. Nepal's tourist and mountaineering season ended in May. The flights carrying tourists to the mountains are less common this time of year as visibility is poor and weather conditions fickle. Founded in 1997, Manang Air is a helicopter airline based in Kathmandu. It has been operating helicopters in commercial air transportation within the Nepalese territory under the Regulation of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. Also read | Nepal PM's wife Sita Dahal dies after suffering cardiac arrest The company provides chartered services and is focused on personalised services such as adventure flights, helicopter excursions or expedition work. Nepal has had a fraught record of aviation accidents, partly due to its sudden weather changes and airstrips located in hard-to-access rocky terrains. According to the record of CAAN, 35 fatal helicopter crashes have occurred in Nepal. Also read | Pak journalist fired for asking questions to PM Shehbaz Sharif about freedom of expression: Report In 2023 alone, four helicopter crashes were reported in the country. In early May, a Simrik Air helicopter crashed in Sankhuwasabha district resulting in the tragic death of one passenger, while four others sustained injuries. Likewise, Heli Everest and Air Dynasty helicopters crashed this year, but there was no casualty.' WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mexican family killed in chopper crash visited India before touring Nepal

All six people have been killed in a helicopter crash in Nepal. The Nepal Aviation authorities have confirmed the same that a missing tourist helicopter had crashed soon after takeoff near Mount Everest. According to the Civil Aviation Authority managing air helicopter 9N-AMV departed from Surke to Kathmandu at 10 AM local time and the last contact was made at 10:13 AM local time. After which the helicopter could not be contacted and now all six people have died that's the latest confirmation. Search and rescue were activated and two helicopters of altitude air and The Nepalese Army with the Nepal police mobilized in the possible areas for search and rescue operations.

Breaking: All six en route to Everest Expedition dead in Nepal helicopter crash

In a bizarre incident, a man faked his own death in Belgium and then dramatically reached his own funeral in a helicopter. The dramatic stunt was pulled by the man to teach his family the importance of staying in touch.

TikTok creator David Baerten, aged 45, informed his wife and children about his plan of faking his death and they helped him in pulling the stunt by going along with him on the social media platform.&nbsp;

To trick Baerten's followers, one of his daughters wrote on social media, "Rest in peace, Daddy. I will never stop thinking about you. Why is life so unfair? Why you? You were going to be a grandfather, and you still had your whole life ahead of you. I love you! We love you! We will never forget you."

<h2>A 'cruel joke'?</h2>

Many people on the online platform slammed it as a 'cruel joke'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/fruit-flies-age-rapidly-when-they-see-their-dead-comrades-study-604390">Fruit flies age rapidly when they see their dead comrades: Study</a>

Last weekend, the family staged a fake funeral near Liege and mourners gathered as Baerten, who goes by Ragnar le Fou online, made his grand entry at the ceremony in a helicopter and accompanied by a film crew.&nbsp;

The TikToker has 162,000 followers and&nbsp;had to face some serious backlash from some quarters.

Explaining his bizarre stunt to The Times, Baerten said that he did so because he wanted to see how his wider family would react after he stated that they had fallen out of contact with the TikTok creator.&nbsp;

"What I see in my family often hurts me. I never get invited to anything. Nobody sees me. We all grew apart. I felt unappreciated. That's why I wanted to give them a life lesson and show them that you shouldn't wait until someone is dead to meet up with them," he said.&nbsp;

Baerten has till now not shared the complete&nbsp;video of him arriving in a chopper.

Emotional reunion

A TikTok user, who was present at the funeral, shared a video of him landing in a field where his friends and family were gathered. Many people rushed over to Baerten and greeted and hugged him as he got down from the helicopter. Baerten then explained the whole stunt to those in attendance.&nbsp;

His close friend Thomas Faut posted a video of the two men hugging as they met and captioned the emotional clip 'you got us'.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Woman knocks on her coffin after being declared dead

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"I swear I was crying and then I had the shock buddy, we love you very much," he said, while speaking about the emotional reunion, despite the deception of his friend.&nbsp;

Baerten said that while "only half of my family came to the funeral," other relatives have reached out to him since then.&nbsp;

"That proves who really cares about me. Those who didn't come did contact me to meet up. So in a way I did win," he said.&nbsp;

Some of his followers agreed that he did give a valuable 'life lesson' to his family and asked him to "ignore the haters".&nbsp;

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In a bizarre incident, a man faked his own death in Belgium and then dramatically reached his own funeral in a helicopter. The dramatic stunt was pulled by the man to teach his family the importance of staying in touch.

In a bizarre incident, a man faked his own death in Belgium and then dramatically reached his own funeral in a helicopter. The dramatic stunt was pulled by the man to teach his family the importance of staying in touch. TikTok creator David Baerten, aged 45, informed his wife and children about his plan of faking his death and they helped him in pulling the stunt by going along with him on the social media platform. To trick Baerten's followers, one of his daughters wrote on social media, "Rest in peace, Daddy. I will never stop thinking about you. Why is life so unfair? Why you? You were going to be a grandfather, and you still had your whole life ahead of you. I love you! We love you! We will never forget you." A 'cruel joke'? Many people on the online platform slammed it as a 'cruel joke'. ALSO READ | Fruit flies age rapidly when they see their dead comrades: Study Last weekend, the family staged a fake funeral near Liege and mourners gathered as Baerten, who goes by Ragnar le Fou online, made his grand entry at the ceremony in a helicopter and accompanied by a film crew. The TikToker has 162,000 followers and had to face some serious backlash from some quarters. Explaining his bizarre stunt to The Times, Baerten said that he did so because he wanted to see how his wider family would react after he stated that they had fallen out of contact with the TikTok creator. "What I see in my family often hurts me. I never get invited to anything. Nobody sees me. We all grew apart. I felt unappreciated. That's why I wanted to give them a life lesson and show them that you shouldn't wait until someone is dead to meet up with them," he said. Baerten has till now not shared the complete video of him arriving in a chopper. Emotional reunion A TikTok user, who was present at the funeral, shared a video of him landing in a field where his friends and family were gathered. Many people rushed over to Baerten and greeted and hugged him as he got down from the helicopter. Baerten then explained the whole stunt to those in attendance. His close friend Thomas Faut posted a video of the two men hugging as they met and captioned the emotional clip 'you got us'. WATCH | Gravitas: Woman knocks on her coffin after being declared dead "I swear I was crying and then I had the shock buddy, we love you very much," he said, while speaking about the emotional reunion, despite the deception of his friend. Baerten said that while "only half of my family came to the funeral," other relatives have reached out to him since then. "That proves who really cares about me. Those who didn't come did contact me to meet up. So in a way I did win," he said. Some of his followers agreed that he did give a valuable 'life lesson' to his family and asked him to "ignore the haters". You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Man fakes his own death, turns up dramatically at his funeral in a helicopter

U.S. Army's chief of staff grounded all pilots who are not involved in critical missions. They have been asked to complete required training, after 4 helicopters crashed in a matter of weeks. The aviation stand down comes after deadly helicopter mishaps claimed 12 soldiers' lives. The move grounds all U.S. Army aviators, except those participating in critical missions. Active-duty units must complete the 24-hour stand down between may 1 & 5, and national guard & reserve units by may 31. 2 ah-64 apache helicopters collided in Alaska on Thursday. The collision killed 3 soldiers & injured a fourth. Last month, 2 black hawks crashed in Kentucky, leaving 9 dead. Few months back, a black hawk crash killed 2 Tennessee national guardsmen during a training flight in Alabama. 4 U.S. Marines were killed during NATO exercises in Norway last year, when their osprey aircraft went down. 2 U.S. Navy pilots were rescued after their t-45c jet crashed during a training exercise in Texas, in 2021.

Four U.S. Army helicopters crash in a matter of weeks; All non-critical aircraft grounded | Details

Several casualties were feared after two army helicopters crashed in US' Kentucky. The military helicopters crashed overnight while on routine training. The status of the crew members is not known yet.

US: Two Army helicopters crash in Kentucky's Fort Campbell, deaths feared

A helicopter crashed in the early hours of Wednesday in the US state of California after a thief attempted to steal it, reported Associated Press. The incident took place at the Sacramento Executive Airport Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident as the thief fled the spot while the authorities remain on the lookout.

A helicopter crashed in the early hours of Wednesday in the US state of California after a thief attempted to steal it, reported Associated Press. The incident took place at the Sacramento Executive Airport Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident as the thief fled the spot while the authorities remain on the lookout. Sacramento police informed that the intruder trespassed into the property between 4 AM and 6 AM local time and attempted to hotwire four helicopters sitting on the tarmac. The thief got lucky with one chopper, managing to start it but soon lost control over it. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been called upon to investigate the accident. The agency informed it had already zeroed in on a suspect. Sean Reagan, special agent in charge said the agency collected surveillance video and witness information leading to a particular person of interest. WATCH | Decoding the disasters: Nepal's troubled history of plane crashes × Reagan added that the agency was trying to determine the motive of the thief. "If someone wanted to take an aircraft for a joyride, someone who wanted to take an aircraft to do some other criminal activity or damage to other property, terrorism would be at the other end of the scope." Meanwhile, the Bell 429 heavy-lift helicopter which belonged to a company named Capitol Helicopters released a statement and hoped that the perpetrator was caught early. "Sometime early this morning several helicopters operated by our company were vandalized by an individual unknown to us, and one aircraft was severely damaged. All our employees are safe, and we do not believe that anyone was injured in today’s events," read the statement. This incident is currently under investigation by several state and federal authorities. We are hopeful that the people responsible are located quickly. We have no further information to report at this time. We appreciate the support from all the agencies and individuals involved." Alongside FBI, Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Transportation Safety Board have also started investigating the case. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Heist gone wrong: Thief crashes stolen helicopter at Sacramento Airport

U.S. military helicopter crashes on highway at Harvest, Alabama. Black flames & smoke rises from the UH-60 Black Hawk.

Fatal Helicopter Crash

India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) handed over an Advanced Light Helicopter Mark 3 variant to the Government of Mauritius, thus augmenting the nation's existing fleet of helicopters from HAL. Indian&nbsp;Government-run HAL and the Government of the Republic of Mauritius share a business relationship that spans over three decades and the latest contract for a single ALH Mk3 chopper for the Mauritius Police Force was signed in January 2022.&nbsp; HAL&nbsp;would continue to provide all the technical, logistic, and maintenance support for ALH helicopters in Mauritius.

ALH Mk III is a multi-role, multi-mission versatile helicopter in the 5.5-tonne category. It has proven its mettle in various utility roles, including numerous lifesaving missions during natural calamities in India and abroad. More than 335 ALH have been produced to date, logging a cumulative of more than 3,75,000 flying hours.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-small-rocket-sslv-d2-lifts-off-with-earth-observation-satellite-560479">Indian Space agency ISRO starts 2023 launch calendar with success of 'SSLV-D2'; India gets a new rocket!</a>

Speaking at the handing over event at the HAL Helicopter Division in Bengaluru, E P Jayadeva, Director (Operations), HAL, said that the helicopter had been handed over way ahead of schedule. "This order is in line with the Indian Government's vision to boost defence exports to Friendly Foreign Countries. The handing over of export helicopter has further bolstered the ties between both countries. The ALH Mk III helicopter will meet the operational requirements of Mauritius Police Force," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-15-made-in-india-helicopters-of-the-govt-run-aerospace-firm-to-fly-in-formation-at-aero-india-560659">Also read |&nbsp;India: 15 made-in-India helicopters of the govt-run aerospace firm to fly in formation at Aero India</a>

A K Dip, Commissioner of Police, Mauritius Police Force (MPF), said that&nbsp;the induction of a new helicopter into the stables of the Mauritius Police Force will enhance its aerial capabilities. The helicopter will contribute immensely to ensuring territorial integrity and enhancing the speed and effectiveness of police intervention during critical incidents and disasters. 
&nbsp;

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India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) handed over an Advanced Light Helicopter Mark 3 variant to the Government of Mauritius, thus augmenting the nation's existing fleet of helicopters from HAL.

India's Hindustan Aeronautics Limited(HAL) handed over an Advanced Light Helicopter Mark 3 variant to the Government of Mauritius, thus augmenting the nation's existing fleet of helicopters from HAL. Indian Government-run HAL and the Government of the Republic of Mauritius share a business relationship that spans over three decades and the latest contract for a single ALH Mk3 chopper for the Mauritius Police Force was signed in January 2022. HAL would continue to provide all the technical, logistic, and maintenance support for ALH helicopters in Mauritius. ALH Mk III is a multi-role, multi-mission versatile helicopter in the 5.5-tonne category. It has proven its mettle in various utility roles, including numerous lifesaving missions during natural calamities in India and abroad. More than 335 ALH have been produced to date, logging a cumulative of more than 3,75,000 flying hours. Also read | Indian Space agency ISRO starts 2023 launch calendar with success of 'SSLV-D2'; India gets a new rocket! Speaking at the handing over event at the HAL Helicopter Division in Bengaluru, E P Jayadeva, Director (Operations), HAL, said that the helicopter had been handed over way ahead of schedule. "This order is in line with the Indian Government's vision to boost defence exports to Friendly Foreign Countries. The handing over of export helicopter has further bolstered the ties between both countries. The ALH Mk III helicopter will meet the operational requirements of Mauritius Police Force," he said. Also read | India: 15 made-in-India helicopters of the govt-run aerospace firm to fly in formation at Aero India A K Dip, Commissioner of Police, Mauritius Police Force (MPF), said that the induction of a new helicopter into the stables of the Mauritius Police Force will enhance its aerial capabilities. The helicopter will contribute immensely to ensuring territorial integrity and enhancing the speed and effectiveness of police intervention during critical incidents and disasters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian aerospace firm HAL hands over indigenous, multi-role ALH Mk3 helicopter to Mauritius

The Indian Government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will display what they call an 'Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Formation' flight, comprising 15 made-in India helicopters, at the Aero India show in Bengaluru in the southern state of Karnataka. The formation will comprise all variants of the Advanced Light Helicopter(ALH), 'Prachand' Light Combat Helicopter and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), all of which are manufactured by HAL, in India. Held in the city of Bengaluru, the biennial aerospace show is touted as Asia's largest aerospace and defence show.

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In addition to the rotary wing aircraft (helicopters), HAL will also be exhibiting fixed wing aircraft such as the Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas' fighter's twin seater variant, Hawk-i, Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) and Hindustan Turbo Trainer (HTT)-40 aircraft. "HAL will showcase its full spectrum training capabilities and display for the first time, the scale model of Hindustan Lead in Fighter Trainer (HLFT)-42."&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-run-aerospace-firm-hal-hands-over-indigenous-multi-role-alh-mk3-helicopter-to-mauritius-560675">Indian govt-run Aerospace firm HAL hands over indigenous, multi-role ALH Mk3 helicopter to Mauritius</a>

HLFT-42 is the ‘Next Gen Supersonic Trainer’ that will play a critical role in modern combat aircraft training with state-of-the-art avionics like Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA), Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite, Infrared Search and Track (IRST) with Fly by Wire control (FBW) system," the company said.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian govt eases norms for travellers from China &amp; 5 other countries

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At its indoor pavilion, HAL will showcase the scale model of Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH),&nbsp;Next generation HLFT-42 and models of LCA Mk 2, Hindustan Turbo-shaft Engine-1200, RUAV, LCA Trainer, Hindustan-228, etc. The outdoor display by HAL will feature Rotary wing products LUH and ALH Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) variant. In addition, civil certified Dornier-228 will be showcased for utilisation in the commercial flying sector.

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The Indian Government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will display what they call an 'Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Formation' flight, comprising 15 made-in India helicopters, at the Aero India show in Bengaluru in the southern state of Karnataka.

The Indian Government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited will display what they call an 'Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Formation' flight, comprising 15 made-in India helicopters, at the Aero India show in Bengaluru in the southern state of Karnataka. The formation will comprise all variants of the Advanced Light Helicopter(ALH), 'Prachand' Light Combat Helicopter and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), all of which are manufactured by HAL, in India. Held in the city of Bengaluru, the biennial aerospace show is touted as Asia's largest aerospace and defence show. In addition to the rotary wing aircraft (helicopters), HAL will also be exhibiting fixed wing aircraft such as the Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas' fighter's twin seater variant, Hawk-i, Intermediate Jet Trainer (IJT) and Hindustan Turbo Trainer (HTT)-40 aircraft. "HAL will showcase its full spectrum training capabilities and display for the first time, the scale model of Hindustan Lead in Fighter Trainer (HLFT)-42." Also read | Indian govt-run Aerospace firm HAL hands over indigenous, multi-role ALH Mk3 helicopter to Mauritius HLFT-42 is the ‘Next Gen Supersonic Trainer’ that will play a critical role in modern combat aircraft training with state-of-the-art avionics like Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA), Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite, Infrared Search and Track (IRST) with Fly by Wire control (FBW) system," the company said. Also watch | Indian govt eases norms for travellers from China & 5 other countries At its indoor pavilion, HAL will showcase the scale model of Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH), Next generation HLFT-42 and models of LCA Mk 2, Hindustan Turbo-shaft Engine-1200, RUAV, LCA Trainer, Hindustan-228, etc. The outdoor display by HAL will feature Rotary wing products LUH and ALH Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) variant. In addition, civil certified Dornier-228 will be showcased for utilisation in the commercial flying sector. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

15 made-in-India helicopters of aerospace firm HAL to fly in formation at Aero India

Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said on Jan. 21 that Sea King helicopters donated by the U.K. have arrived in Ukraine. Reznikov didn't specify the number of helicopters obtained. “It is a strong reinforcement for the Ukrainian Navy.

UK donates helicopter to Ukraine, Germany says 'in close dialogue' with partners on issue of tanks

The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate.&nbsp;In a written reply, the Cabinet Division said that the former premiere’s expenses for his chopper rides from January 2019 to March 2022 amounted to over Rs 430 million.

It was also stated that the PTI chief completed a total of 1,579 VVIP mission hours on the copter in the said span of time.

The reply further pointed out that the former cricketer-turned-politician flew for 522 hours in helicopter in 2020, which cost the exchequer Rs 140 million. The following year 2021 saw Khan using 450 hours of VVIV flights, which resulted into bills over Rs120 million, reported Geo News.

The details about Khan’s helicopter expenses were revealed following a probe by the&nbsp;National Accountability Bureau (NAB) earlier this month on the illegal use of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s helicopters. The KP region is governed by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party.

It was revealed that those who used the chopper for private use owe Rs 90 million to the provincial administration.

The development came in reaction to the usage of choppers used by Khan, former and current provincial and federal ministers, including others.

The NAB had asked the KP government&nbsp;to recover the cost of all the illegal helicopter trips taken by "influential politicians, public officeholders" and others.

To tackle this, the KP government in November this year drafted a proposal to amend the laws regarding the use of its helicopter and other matters in the province.

Following the amendment, no one will be able to question the chopper's use, including who uses it and why is it being used.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate.

The Shehbaz Sharif-led government upped the ante on opposition leader Imran Khan by bringing up the helicopter expense details of the former prime minister during a session in the upper house, Senate. In a written reply, the Cabinet Division said that the former premiere’s expenses for his chopper rides from January 2019 to March 2022 amounted to over Rs 430 million. It was also stated that the PTI chief completed a total of 1,579 VVIP mission hours on the copter in the said span of time. The reply further pointed out that the former cricketer-turned-politician flew for 522 hours in helicopter in 2020, which cost the exchequer Rs 140 million. The following year 2021 saw Khan using 450 hours of VVIV flights, which resulted into bills over Rs120 million, reported Geo News. The details about Khan’s helicopter expenses were revealed following a probe by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) earlier this month on the illegal use of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government’s helicopters. The KP region is governed by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. It was revealed that those who used the chopper for private use owe Rs 90 million to the provincial administration. The development came in reaction to the usage of choppers used by Khan, former and current provincial and federal ministers, including others. The NAB had asked the KP government to recover the cost of all the illegal helicopter trips taken by "influential politicians, public officeholders" and others. To tackle this, the KP government in November this year drafted a proposal to amend the laws regarding the use of its helicopter and other matters in the province. Following the amendment, no one will be able to question the chopper's use, including who uses it and why is it being used. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Imran Khan’s copter rides cost Rs 430 million to exchequer, says Pakistan govt reeling under debt

India's government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has completed the delivery of all 16 ALHMk3 helicopters, as ordered by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The delivery of the chopper took place at a ceremony in Bengaluru, in the presence of officials from the HAL and ICG.&nbsp;

ALHMk3 is an indigenously designed and developed helicopter made by HAL. The company has so far produced more than 330 ALHs, a versatile helicopter which has logged more than 3.74 lakhs of flying hours. Indian Coast Guard has taken delivery of the maritime variant of this chopper.

“We are proud to be associated with HAL and happy to issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) for nine more helicopters. Despite COVID-19, HAL delivered all the helicopters (ordered in March 2017) in the shortest time with seamless production activities and this allows us to strengthen India’s maritime security”, said VS Pathania, Director General, ICG.&nbsp;

Ananthakrishnan, CMD, HAL, said a unique feature of the contract has been the Performance Based Logistics (PBL) – the one-stop solution for the maintenance of these helicopters by HAL. &nbsp;

“This will serve as a benchmark for all our future contracts and boost our resolve to work with private partners to speed up the work in the interest of all our customers and strengthen Make-in-India activities in the Defence eco-system”, he added.

HAL Officials said that the major challenges in executing the ICG contract for choppers included the integration of new systems sourced from foreign manufacturers, conducting flight trials for certifications and overcoming supply chain disruptions, that arose during COVID-19 lockdowns.

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India's government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has completed the delivery of all 16 ALHMk3 helicopters, as ordered by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

India's government-run aerospace and defence firm Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has completed the delivery of all 16 ALHMk3 helicopters, as ordered by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The delivery of the chopper took place at a ceremony in Bengaluru, in the presence of officials from the HAL and ICG. ALHMk3 is an indigenously designed and developed helicopter made by HAL. The company has so far produced more than 330 ALHs, a versatile helicopter which has logged more than 3.74 lakhs of flying hours. Indian Coast Guard has taken delivery of the maritime variant of this chopper. “We are proud to be associated with HAL and happy to issue a Letter of Intent (LoI) for nine more helicopters. Despite COVID-19, HAL delivered all the helicopters (ordered in March 2017) in the shortest time with seamless production activities and this allows us to strengthen India’s maritime security”, said VS Pathania, Director General, ICG. Ananthakrishnan, CMD, HAL, said a unique feature of the contract has been the Performance Based Logistics (PBL) – the one-stop solution for the maintenance of these helicopters by HAL. “This will serve as a benchmark for all our future contracts and boost our resolve to work with private partners to speed up the work in the interest of all our customers and strengthen Make-in-India activities in the Defence eco-system”, he added. HAL Officials said that the major challenges in executing the ICG contract for choppers included the integration of new systems sourced from foreign manufacturers, conducting flight trials for certifications and overcoming supply chain disruptions, that arose during COVID-19 lockdowns. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: HAL delivers all 16 ALHMk3 helicopters to coast guard

An enquiry into the 2020 Canberra bushfires which were started by an army helicopter revealed some shocking details on Monday. According to the ongoing inquest at the ACT coroner’s court, the crew were taking a toilet break when the bushfire started and they took around 45 minutes to alert the ACT Emergency Service Agency about the location. The army major, who was in charge of the MRH-90 Taipan helicopter codenamed ANGEL21, also said that the headlights were responsible for the fire.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-meet-live-updates-us-president-will-seek-to-establish-red-lines-in-face-to-face-talks-with-xi-533875" hreflang="en">G20 Summit LIVE | Sergey Lavrov taken to hospital, Russia calls it 'fake news'</a>

&nbsp;The mission assigned to the helicopter was to find remote helipads which could be of use to firefighting teams but it ended up causing a massive fire at the Orroral valley. The internal recordings from the helicopter revealed that part of the crew were outside when the headlights caused the fire and once, they realised what has happened, the crew was ordered to board the helicopter instantly.&nbsp;

While the crew members accepted their part in the accident, the lawyers argued that they were not aware of how hot the headlights could get and said that the crew was late in realising that the fire has started. “Come up, come up, we’ve started a fire, turn the searchlight off,” a crew member was heard shouting in the recording as the defence maintained that all proper procedures were followed after it.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/varanasi-to-assam-via-bangladesh-worlds-longest-luxury-river-cruise-to-start-operations-in-jan-533961" hreflang="en">Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh, world's longest luxury river cruise to start operations in Jan</a>

However, the opposing counsel was not convinced with the arguments and said that “at no time did anyone on board notify anyone of the fact they had ignited the fire or the location of the fire”, according to The Guardian. They also pointed that there was a gap in communication during the busefires.&nbsp;

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An enquiry into the 2020 Canberra bushfires which were started by an army helicopter revealed some shocking details on Monday. According to the ongoing inquest at the ACT coroner’s court, the crew were taking a toilet break when the bushfire started and they took around 45 minutes to alert the ACT Emergency Service Agency about the location.

An enquiry into the 2020 Canberra bushfires which were started by an army helicopter revealed some shocking details on Monday. According to the ongoing inquest at the ACT coroner’s court, the crew were taking a toilet break when the bushfire started and they took around 45 minutes to alert the ACT Emergency Service Agency about the location. The army major, who was in charge of the MRH-90 Taipan helicopter codenamed ANGEL21, also said that the headlights were responsible for the fire. Also read | G20 Summit LIVE | Sergey Lavrov taken to hospital, Russia calls it 'fake news' The mission assigned to the helicopter was to find remote helipads which could be of use to firefighting teams but it ended up causing a massive fire at the Orroral valley. The internal recordings from the helicopter revealed that part of the crew were outside when the headlights caused the fire and once, they realised what has happened, the crew was ordered to board the helicopter instantly. While the crew members accepted their part in the accident, the lawyers argued that they were not aware of how hot the headlights could get and said that the crew was late in realising that the fire has started. “Come up, come up, we’ve started a fire, turn the searchlight off,” a crew member was heard shouting in the recording as the defence maintained that all proper procedures were followed after it. Also read | Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh, world's longest luxury river cruise to start operations in Jan However, the opposing counsel was not convinced with the arguments and said that “at no time did anyone on board notify anyone of the fact they had ignited the fire or the location of the fire”, according to The Guardian. They also pointed that there was a gap in communication during the busefires.

Army pilot says helicopter responsible for 2020 Canberra bushfire landed for toilet break

NASA has decided to send two more helicopters to Mars following the success of their initial mission. The mission, which NASA is conducting along with the European Space Agency, is aimed at bringing back rocks from Mars to further the study into the red planet. The rocks, which were brought back in the initial mission, are currently being studied with help of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. “We have a path forward using a revised and innovative architecture,” Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA’s science directorate, told the media.

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According to New York Times, the “Marscopter” – a helicopter designed similar to Ingenuity – will be used in the upcoming mission along with NASA’s Perseverance rover to Mars.

Initially, the mission was supposed to use a rover built by ESA to collect the rocks and bring them back to the rocket. However, due to space constraints, they have decided to use the helicopter which will enable them to transport the samples better and without adding more weight.

The Perseverance remains the first choice for the mission, but the helicopters will provide more support, according to the NYT report. The trip back to space will most likely take place in 2033.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-first-monkeypox-casualty-is-a-22-year-old-male-who-had-20-close-contacts-502569" hreflang="en">India: First Monkeypox casualty is a 22-year old male who had 20 close contacts</a>

“We reached our decision based on new studies and recent achievements at Mars that allowed us to consider options that, frankly, weren’t available to us one year ago or before,” Zurbuchen said.

With the changes in the mission, it will also need just one lander instead of two and that has simplified it quite a bit. “All I can say right now is the obvious,” said Jeff Gramling, director for the Mars Sample Return program at NASA. “One lander certainly is much less costly than two.”

NASA has decided to send two more helicopters to Mars following the success of their initial mission. The mission, which NASA is conducting along with the European Space Agency, is aimed at bringing back rocks from Mars to further the study into the red planet.

NASA has decided to send two more helicopters to Mars following the success of their initial mission. The mission, which NASA is conducting along with the European Space Agency, is aimed at bringing back rocks from Mars to further the study into the red planet. The rocks, which were brought back in the initial mission, are currently being studied with help of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. “We have a path forward using a revised and innovative architecture,” Thomas Zurbuchen, associate administrator for NASA’s science directorate, told the media. Also read | Texas woman forced to carry her own foul discharge to qualify for abortion According to New York Times, the “Marscopter” – a helicopter designed similar to Ingenuity – will be used in the upcoming mission along with NASA’s Perseverance rover to Mars. Initially, the mission was supposed to use a rover built by ESA to collect the rocks and bring them back to the rocket. However, due to space constraints, they have decided to use the helicopter which will enable them to transport the samples better and without adding more weight. The Perseverance remains the first choice for the mission, but the helicopters will provide more support, according to the NYT report. The trip back to space will most likely take place in 2033. Also read | India: First Monkeypox casualty is a 22-year old male who had 20 close contacts “We reached our decision based on new studies and recent achievements at Mars that allowed us to consider options that, frankly, weren’t available to us one year ago or before,” Zurbuchen said. With the changes in the mission, it will also need just one lander instead of two and that has simplified it quite a bit. “All I can say right now is the obvious,” said Jeff Gramling, director for the Mars Sample Return program at NASA. “One lander certainly is much less costly than two.”

NASA to send more helicopters to Mars as part of mission to bring back samples

Rocket Lab USA Inc, a small launch company, captured a falling rocket stage with a helicopter and dropped it in the ocean on Monday, appearing to complete a partial test of the company's novel cost-savings approach to recovering used rockets for multiple missions to space.

Rocket Lab captures rocket booster with helicopter, then drops it

Pakistan's newly appointed Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Thursday that former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan incurred the expense of more than USD 5 million just on helicopter trips from Prime Minister's House to his private residence. She was quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn.

As per the report, the minister made the claim at a press conference in Islamabad.

The minister did not stop there, she also claimed that Imran Khan made Rs 142 million by selling state gifts from the Toshakhana.

Toshakhana of the Pakistani state&nbsp;officially holds gifts received by Pakistan prime minister and president.

Aurangzeb claimed that Khan paid only 20 per cent retention money on the gifts.

The information minister said Khan will have to show the money trail and the receipts as the Toshakhana gifts cannot be sold.

"Where is the money trail for the gifts you (Imran) retained?," she asked. She was quoted by news agency Press Trust of India.

"The PTI-led (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) government introduced a law to procure gifts from the Toshakhana at 50% of its original cost, but despite the law being introduced during their tenure, Imran Khan purchased the gift at 20% of the cost," Aurangzeb said.&nbsp;

Pakistan's newly appointed Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Thursday that former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan incurred the expense of more than USD 5 million just on helicopter trips from Prime Minister's House to his private residence.

Pakistan's newly appointed Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Thursday that former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan incurred the expense of more than USD 5 million just on helicopter trips from Prime Minister's House to his private residence. She was quoted by Pakistani news outlet Dawn. As per the report, the minister made the claim at a press conference in Islamabad. The minister did not stop there, she also claimed that Imran Khan made Rs 142 million by selling state gifts from the Toshakhana. Toshakhana of the Pakistani state officially holds gifts received by Pakistan prime minister and president. Aurangzeb claimed that Khan paid only 20 per cent retention money on the gifts. The information minister said Khan will have to show the money trail and the receipts as the Toshakhana gifts cannot be sold. "Where is the money trail for the gifts you (Imran) retained?," she asked. She was quoted by news agency Press Trust of India. "The PTI-led (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) government introduced a law to procure gifts from the Toshakhana at 50% of its original cost, but despite the law being introduced during their tenure, Imran Khan purchased the gift at 20% of the cost," Aurangzeb said.

Imran Khan spent USD 5 million on helicopter rides to home, alleges minister

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’.

In order to cash in on the growing frenzy among grooms who seek to hire helicopters to make a grand entry to their wedding venues, Guddu Sharma turned his Tata Nano, a four-seater hatchback, into a chopper.

He used sensors to give desired features to the vehicle.

According to an Indian newspaper, the mechanic spent nearly 200,000 rupees (more than US $2,600) to shape his car into a helicopter.

Guddu said that he saw a huge demand for helicopters during weddings as the prospective grooms wish to bring their bride home, but due to money problems, they can't afford it.

Hence, he converted the vehicle into a helicopter which can be affordable for everyone.

“In the era of Digital India, this invention is a living example of self-reliant India. More than 150,000 rupees is required in making such a ‘helicopter’, whereas it will cost more than 200,000 rupees to give it a hi-tech appearance,” Guddu said.

It seems that his creative invention is already being well received as he said that 19 people have already booked it.

The helicopter can be hired at a price of Rs 15,000 (US $200).

However, he is not the first person to turn his car into a helicopter.

Mithilesh Prasad, from Chhapra in Bihar state, modified his Tata Nano car into a helicopter to achieve his childhood dream of designing a helicopter. It took him seven months to complete the project.

(With inputs from agencies)

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’.

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention. This proverb could not be more true in the case of a mechanic in India’s north Bihar state who is being hailed as an ‘artist’. In order to cash in on the growing frenzy among grooms who seek to hire helicopters to make a grand entry to their wedding venues, Guddu Sharma turned his Tata Nano, a four-seater hatchback, into a chopper. He used sensors to give desired features to the vehicle. According to an Indian newspaper, the mechanic spent nearly 200,000 rupees (more than US $2,600) to shape his car into a helicopter. Guddu said that he saw a huge demand for helicopters during weddings as the prospective grooms wish to bring their bride home, but due to money problems, they can't afford it. Hence, he converted the vehicle into a helicopter which can be affordable for everyone. “In the era of Digital India, this invention is a living example of self-reliant India. More than 150,000 rupees is required in making such a ‘helicopter’, whereas it will cost more than 200,000 rupees to give it a hi-tech appearance,” Guddu said. It seems that his creative invention is already being well received as he said that 19 people have already booked it. The helicopter can be hired at a price of Rs 15,000 (US $200). However, he is not the first person to turn his car into a helicopter. Mithilesh Prasad, from Chhapra in Bihar state, modified his Tata Nano car into a helicopter to achieve his childhood dream of designing a helicopter. It took him seven months to complete the project. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian man converts his car into a helicopter, rents it for weddings

Flying taxis could be coming to our cities as early as 2024. The flying cars will connect major airports to city centers. They will reduce travel time to a fourth, and will be much cheaper than a helicopter ride. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Flying taxis could be a reality in 2024

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability.&nbsp;

Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzan said that the first of the 32 S-70i Black Hawks will begin to arrive next year. It will come from a Polish firm owned by US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. "The lack of transport planes and helicopters have never been more acute during the pandemic and in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette," he said.&nbsp;

Typhoon Odette is the local name of Typhoon Rai. "This was exacerbated by our ageing Hueys that have become uneconomical to maintain," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fight-between-military-and-rebels-intensifies-as-hundreds-of-monks-flee-myanmar-report-445219">Also read |&nbsp;Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report</a>

Typhoon Rai was a super typhoon that killed over 400 people and caused large scale devastation.&nbsp;

Hundreds of thousands fled their homes and beachfront resorts as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the archipelago, knocking out communications and electricity in many areas, ripping off roofs and toppling concrete power poles.

Earlier last year, the government completed an order of 16 S-70i Black Hawks. This was done to replace the air force's fleet of Bell UH-1H helicopters after fatal accidents. The entire Black Hawk fleet was grounded in June following a crash during a night-time training flight.

An investigation found it "inadvertently entered a thunderstorm" and the pilot suffered "spatial disorientation or vertigo".

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability.

In what is being termed as the nation's latest big-ticket purchase, the Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters for more than $620 million. The move comes in an attempt to upgrade its military capability. Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzan said that the first of the 32 S-70i Black Hawks will begin to arrive next year. It will come from a Polish firm owned by US defence manufacturer Lockheed Martin. "The lack of transport planes and helicopters have never been more acute during the pandemic and in the aftermath of Typhoon Odette," he said. Typhoon Odette is the local name of Typhoon Rai. "This was exacerbated by our ageing Hueys that have become uneconomical to maintain," he added. Also read | Fight between military and rebels intensifies as hundreds of monks flee Myanmar: Report Typhoon Rai was a super typhoon that killed over 400 people and caused large scale devastation. Hundreds of thousands fled their homes and beachfront resorts as Typhoon Rai ravaged the southern and central regions of the archipelago, knocking out communications and electricity in many areas, ripping off roofs and toppling concrete power poles. Earlier last year, the government completed an order of 16 S-70i Black Hawks. This was done to replace the air force's fleet of Bell UH-1H helicopters after fatal accidents. The entire Black Hawk fleet was grounded in June following a crash during a night-time training flight. An investigation found it "inadvertently entered a thunderstorm" and the pilot suffered "spatial disorientation or vertigo". (With inputs from agencies)

To upgrade its military, Philippines will buy 32 new Black Hawk helicopters

Four bodies were recovered and three injured people were rescued after an IAF Mi-17V5 helicopter carrying India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat crashed in the Coonoor area of the Southern State of Tamil Nadu, today.

India: Four bodies recovered after chopper carrying CDS Gen Bipin Rawat crashes in Tamil Nadu

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already earned its place in history by being first man-made craft to fly successfully on the surface of another planet. Till now we only knew this through news shared by NASA which got confirmation of the flight from the telemetry data. But now, Perseverance rover has recorded the magnificent flight of the helicopter. And NASA has shared the video with everyone online.

Recently, Ingenuity made its 13th flight. In the videos released by NASA, the rotocraft can be seen to fly nearly 700 feet horizontally at a height of about 26 feet from the martian surface. Perseverance used its Mastcam-Z to record the flight from 1000 feet away. The flight took place on September 4.&nbsp;

Check out the video

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NASA scientists recently made changes in Ingenuity's program to make it move a little faster. This was done to compensate for Martian atmosphere which is thinner than that of Earth. Ingenuity's navigation system is automated and uses Artificial Intelligence to make adjustment with respect to variables like wind speed and pressure changes.

Ingenuity took images of some interesting rock structures during its 13th flight. Ingenuity helicopter and its flight was initially meant to be just a technology demonstration. But after its brilliant success, its mission has been expanded to include study of martian rock deposits.

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already earned its place in history by being first man-made craft to fly successfully on the surface of another planet. Till now we only knew this through news shared by NASA which got confirmation of the flight from the telemetry data.

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already earned its place in history by being first man-made craft to fly successfully on the surface of another planet. Till now we only knew this through news shared by NASA which got confirmation of the flight from the telemetry data. But now, Perseverance rover has recorded the magnificent flight of the helicopter. And NASA has shared the video with everyone online. Recently, Ingenuity made its 13th flight. In the videos released by NASA, the rotocraft can be seen to fly nearly 700 feet horizontally at a height of about 26 feet from the martian surface. Perseverance used its Mastcam-Z to record the flight from 1000 feet away. The flight took place on September 4. Check out the video × NASA scientists recently made changes in Ingenuity's program to make it move a little faster. This was done to compensate for Martian atmosphere which is thinner than that of Earth. Ingenuity's navigation system is automated and uses Artificial Intelligence to make adjustment with respect to variables like wind speed and pressure changes. Ingenuity took images of some interesting rock structures during its 13th flight. Ingenuity helicopter and its flight was initially meant to be just a technology demonstration. But after its brilliant success, its mission has been expanded to include study of martian rock deposits.

NASA shares Perseverance rover's breathtaking recording of Ingenuity flight on Mars

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already defied expectations after its first flight on Mars. After creating history earlier this year of carrying out first motored flight on planet other than Earth, Ingenuity's mission has been extended. Now it is getting ready for 14th flight over the surface of the red planet.

However, things are getting difficult for the helicopter. Martian atmosphere is thinner than that of Earth so flying is a challenge there to start with. But situation has become more difficult due to further thinning of Martian air.

This is happening due seasonal variations on Mars.

Ingenuity has carried out 'daring' missions before and has helped Perseverance rover as it moved on Martian surface and studied the planet more. But for its 14th flight, the helicopter will only test high rotor speeds to test its ability to fly in thinning air.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-to-send-ice-seeking-rover-to-moon-414613">NASA to send ice-seeking rover to Moon</a>

In this flight, Ingenuity will rise up to 16 feet (5 metres) from the surface.

Ingenuity's mission was expected to last for just a few months. But its success has seen the mission getting extended. However, this has brought unexpected challenges.

Ingenuity was not designed to withstand seasonal variations on Mars. And these variations is exactly something it is having to tackle now.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-ingenuity-helicopter-takes-3d-photo-of-rock-structure-on-mars-414347">NASA's Ingenuity helicopter takes 3D photo of rock structure on Mars</a>

Density of Martian atmosphere is about 1.5 per cent of that of Earth's atmosphere. But due to the variations, it is going down to 1 per cent. Though the difference appears small on paper, it throws up considerable challenges for Ingenuity's flight.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/at-iss-sun-rises-and-sets-every-45-minutes-nasa-tells-why-412923">At ISS, Sun rises and sets every 45 minutes, NASA tells why</a>

Solution to this problem is increasing the rotor speed of the helicopter so that it creates sufficient air cushion under the helicopter in thinning air. However, NASA is planning to see whether the higher rotor speeds can be achieved on ground first before allowing the helicopter to fly.

The date for Ingenuity's 14th flight has not been finalised as of now.

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already defied expectations after its first flight on Mars. After creating history earlier this year of carrying out first motored flight on planet other than Earth, Ingenuity's mission has been extended.

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter has already defied expectations after its first flight on Mars. After creating history earlier this year of carrying out first motored flight on planet other than Earth, Ingenuity's mission has been extended. Now it is getting ready for 14th flight over the surface of the red planet. However, things are getting difficult for the helicopter. Martian atmosphere is thinner than that of Earth so flying is a challenge there to start with. But situation has become more difficult due to further thinning of Martian air. This is happening due seasonal variations on Mars. Ingenuity has carried out 'daring' missions before and has helped Perseverance rover as it moved on Martian surface and studied the planet more. But for its 14th flight, the helicopter will only test high rotor speeds to test its ability to fly in thinning air. Also Read | NASA to send ice-seeking rover to Moon In this flight, Ingenuity will rise up to 16 feet (5 metres) from the surface. Ingenuity's mission was expected to last for just a few months. But its success has seen the mission getting extended. However, this has brought unexpected challenges. Ingenuity was not designed to withstand seasonal variations on Mars. And these variations is exactly something it is having to tackle now. Also Read | NASA's Ingenuity helicopter takes 3D photo of rock structure on Mars Density of Martian atmosphere is about 1.5 per cent of that of Earth's atmosphere. But due to the variations, it is going down to 1 per cent. Though the difference appears small on paper, it throws up considerable challenges for Ingenuity's flight. Also Read | At ISS, Sun rises and sets every 45 minutes, NASA tells why Solution to this problem is increasing the rotor speed of the helicopter so that it creates sufficient air cushion under the helicopter in thinning air. However, NASA is planning to see whether the higher rotor speeds can be achieved on ground first before allowing the helicopter to fly. The date for Ingenuity's 14th flight has not been finalised as of now.

NASA's Ingenuity helicopter is finding it tougher to fly on Mars

A day after a video of a man dangling from a US Blackhawk helicopter in Kandahar went viral on social media, several theories have come up. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Some say the man was hanged, some say the person was alive and some claim he was trying to fix the flag. Let’s try to ascertain the reality. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Afghan pilot flying this is someone I have known over the years. He was trained in the US and UAE, he confirmed to me that he flew the Blackhawk helicopter. Taliban fighter seen here was trying to install Taliban flag from air but it didn’t work in the end. <a href="https://t.co/wnF8ep1zEl">https://t.co/wnF8ep1zEl</a>
— BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) <a href="https://twitter.com/bsarwary/status/1432741986545676288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It went viral as soon as it was posted by the now-deleted account of Talib Times, claimed by the Taliban as their official handle.

While slamming Joe Biden's 'Afghanistan catastrophe', Republican senator Ted Cruz has shared the video. He claimed the Taliban hanged a man from an American Blackhawk helicopter. &nbsp;

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It turns out the post I shared w/ a video of Taliban “hanging a man” from a helicopter may be inaccurate. So I deleted the tweet. 
 
What remains accurate is: 
 
- The Taliban are brutal terrorists. 
 
- We left them millions in US military equipment, including Black Hawk helicopters. <a href="https://t.co/zOvNM5UXUW">https://t.co/zOvNM5UXUW</a>
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) <a href="https://twitter.com/tedcruz/status/1432833961684869120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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According to the reports, the video surfaced on Monday just after the US troops left the country. It went viral as the Taliban are not believed to have trained pilots and a man was also seen 'hanging' from the helicopter. &nbsp;

And any new development from Afghanistan is also creating an uproar in social media lately due to the abrupt catastrophic US troops pullout from the country.

Watch | Biden: Our safety and security lies in a tough, unforgiving, targeted, precise strategy

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Some social media accounts seem to have claimed it was not what it looked like. According to them, the man seen dangling from the helicopter was actually a Taliban fighter, who was trying to install a Taliban flag from the air. &nbsp;

The Blackhawk helicopter was also being flown by an Afghan pilot, who was trained in the United States or the United Arab Emirates and not a Taliban.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The same video was also posted by Asvaka news agency, which claimed the Black Hawk was seen over the Kandahar governor office. The reports claimed the man was actually trying to install a flag on the governor's office, from the air, which did not work at the end.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/drone-strikes-to-continue-in-afghanistan-when-needed-says-pentagon-409922" hreflang="en">Drone strikes to continue in Afghanistan when needed, says Pentagon</a>&nbsp;

According to the Reuters Factcheck, a closer shot of the video shows that the "man is alive, despite the contrary claims". &nbsp;

So, finally, Ted Cruz deleted the earlier tweet and wrote, "It turns out the post I shared w/ a video of Taliban “hanging a man” from a helicopter may be inaccurate. So I deleted the tweet. What remains accurate is: The Taliban are brutal terrorists. We left them millions in US military equipment, including Black Hawk helicopters." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A day after a video of a man dangling from a US Blackhawk helicopter in Kandahar went viral on social media, several theories have come up. Some say the man was hanged, some say the person was alive and some claim he was trying to fix the flag.

A day after a video of a man dangling from a US Blackhawk helicopter in Kandahar went viral on social media, several theories have come up. Some say the man was hanged, some say the person was alive and some claim he was trying to fix the flag. Let’s try to ascertain the reality. Afghan pilot flying this is someone I have known over the years. He was trained in the US and UAE, he confirmed to me that he flew the Blackhawk helicopter. Taliban fighter seen here was trying to install Taliban flag from air but it didn’t work in the end. https://t.co/wnF8ep1zEl — BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) August 31, 2021 × It went viral as soon as it was posted by the now-deleted account of Talib Times, claimed by the Taliban as their official handle. While slamming Joe Biden's 'Afghanistan catastrophe', Republican senator Ted Cruz has shared the video. He claimed the Taliban hanged a man from an American Blackhawk helicopter. It turns out the post I shared w/ a video of Taliban “hanging a man” from a helicopter may be inaccurate. So I deleted the tweet. What remains accurate is: - The Taliban are brutal terrorists. - We left them millions in US military equipment, including Black Hawk helicopters. https://t.co/zOvNM5UXUW — Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 31, 2021 × According to the reports, the video surfaced on Monday just after the US troops left the country. It went viral as the Taliban are not believed to have trained pilots and a man was also seen 'hanging' from the helicopter. And any new development from Afghanistan is also creating an uproar in social media lately due to the abrupt catastrophic US troops pullout from the country. Watch | Biden: Our safety and security lies in a tough, unforgiving, targeted, precise strategy × Some social media accounts seem to have claimed it was not what it looked like. According to them, the man seen dangling from the helicopter was actually a Taliban fighter, who was trying to install a Taliban flag from the air. The Blackhawk helicopter was also being flown by an Afghan pilot, who was trained in the United States or the United Arab Emirates and not a Taliban. The same video was also posted by Asvaka news agency, which claimed the Black Hawk was seen over the Kandahar governor office. The reports claimed the man was actually trying to install a flag on the governor's office, from the air, which did not work at the end. Also Read: Drone strikes to continue in Afghanistan when needed, says Pentagon According to the Reuters Factcheck, a closer shot of the video shows that the "man is alive, despite the contrary claims". So, finally, Ted Cruz deleted the earlier tweet and wrote, "It turns out the post I shared w/ a video of Taliban “hanging a man” from a helicopter may be inaccurate. So I deleted the tweet. What remains accurate is: The Taliban are brutal terrorists. We left them millions in US military equipment, including Black Hawk helicopters." (With inputs from agencies)

Fact Check: In viral video, man dangling from helicopter was fixing flag in Kandahar, says report  

A helicopter carrying 16 tourists and crew on a sightseeing trip in Russia's far east crashed into a lake on Thursday, leaving eight people including a child feared dead and two others in serious condition.

The Mi-8 helicopter crash-landed into the icy waters of Kuril Lake in the mountainous Kamchatka peninsula in poor visibility and sank, local authorities said.

Staff of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve dispatched boats to the crash site and saved eight people, two of whom are now in intensive care with various injuries. Survivors praised wildlife inspectors for coming to their rescue in a matter of minutes.

"This situation is close to a miracle," said governor Vladimir Solodov.

The other eight -- including the only child on board and the crew commander -- were missing and feared dead.&nbsp;

"We don't have any information about the rest," the governor's spokeswoman, Alla Golovan, told AFP.

The wreckage of the helicopter was now lying at a depth of more than 130 metres (420 feet) some 700 metres from the shore, the emergencies ministry said.

Rescuers and divers were dispatched to the scene but they did not have the necessary equipment to begin work at that depth.

Solodov said the authorities turned to the defence ministry, which sent the necessary underwater equipment.

"Robots will be studying the bottom of Kuril Lake at the site of the crash," the governor said.

Rescued from icy water

Recounting the crash and subsequent rescue operation, wildlife inspectors said that the visibility at the lake was no greater than 100 metres, adding that they heard the helicopter but could not see it.

When staff of the reserve heard a loud "boom", they said they dispatched two motorboats with four inspectors, who reached the scene in about three to four minutes.

"Eight people were on the surface, who we immediately lifted onboard," inspector Yevgeny Denges said in a statement. The inspectors looked for other survivors but could not find anyone, Denges added.

Citing the survivors, the nature reserve said that the chopper began to sink nose first and the passengers managed to swim up to the surface from a depth of eight to nine metres.

"The water temperature in the lake is no more than 5-6 degrees (Celsius, 41-43 degrees Fahrenheit), it is impossible to remain in it for a long time," the reserve said.&nbsp;

The tourists were from Russia's second city Saint Petersburg.

One of the survivors, Viktor Strelkin, said that at the time of the accident he was sleeping and woke up when a stream of water hit him in the face.

"My friend's son was sitting next to me. He was fastened with a security belt and I did not have time to yank him out because I woke up too late," Strelkin said in remarks released by authorities.

'Horrible weather conditions'

Strelkin, who practices free-diving, managed to unfasten himself, breathe in some air before the cabin filled with water, get out of the aircraft and swim up to the surface.

Another survivor, state TV presenter Nikolai Korzhenevsky, appeared to blame the crew for the accident.&nbsp;

"For some reason we flew there even though we knew about the horrible weather conditions there," he said.

Kamchatka is a vast peninsula popular with adventure tourists for its abundant wildlife, live volcanoes and black sand beaches.

The aircraft belongs to a firm called Vityaz-Aero, co-owned by local lawmaker Igor Redkin.

Earlier this week, Redkin made headlines in Russia when he admitted to killing a man he mistook for a bear.&nbsp;

Officials said the helicopter had been in operation since 1984 but was in good condition.

The Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, said it was looking into a potential violation of air safety rules.&nbsp;

The regional prosecutor's office launched a probe to study "the implementation of the legislation on the provision of tourist services".

In July, a small plane crashed on the peninsula, killing 19 people when it flew into a cliff.&nbsp;

Airplane crashes are fairly common in Russia due to poor maintenance and lax compliance with safety rules.

A helicopter carrying 16 tourists and crew on a sightseeing trip in Russia's far east crashed into a lake on Thursday, leaving eight people including a child feared dead and two others in serious condition.

A helicopter carrying 16 tourists and crew on a sightseeing trip in Russia's far east crashed into a lake on Thursday, leaving eight people including a child feared dead and two others in serious condition. The Mi-8 helicopter crash-landed into the icy waters of Kuril Lake in the mountainous Kamchatka peninsula in poor visibility and sank, local authorities said. Staff of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve dispatched boats to the crash site and saved eight people, two of whom are now in intensive care with various injuries. Survivors praised wildlife inspectors for coming to their rescue in a matter of minutes. "This situation is close to a miracle," said governor Vladimir Solodov. The other eight -- including the only child on board and the crew commander -- were missing and feared dead. "We don't have any information about the rest," the governor's spokeswoman, Alla Golovan, told AFP. The wreckage of the helicopter was now lying at a depth of more than 130 metres (420 feet) some 700 metres from the shore, the emergencies ministry said. Rescuers and divers were dispatched to the scene but they did not have the necessary equipment to begin work at that depth. Solodov said the authorities turned to the defence ministry, which sent the necessary underwater equipment. "Robots will be studying the bottom of Kuril Lake at the site of the crash," the governor said. Rescued from icy water Recounting the crash and subsequent rescue operation, wildlife inspectors said that the visibility at the lake was no greater than 100 metres, adding that they heard the helicopter but could not see it. When staff of the reserve heard a loud "boom", they said they dispatched two motorboats with four inspectors, who reached the scene in about three to four minutes. "Eight people were on the surface, who we immediately lifted onboard," inspector Yevgeny Denges said in a statement. The inspectors looked for other survivors but could not find anyone, Denges added. Citing the survivors, the nature reserve said that the chopper began to sink nose first and the passengers managed to swim up to the surface from a depth of eight to nine metres. "The water temperature in the lake is no more than 5-6 degrees (Celsius, 41-43 degrees Fahrenheit), it is impossible to remain in it for a long time," the reserve said. The tourists were from Russia's second city Saint Petersburg. One of the survivors, Viktor Strelkin, said that at the time of the accident he was sleeping and woke up when a stream of water hit him in the face. "My friend's son was sitting next to me. He was fastened with a security belt and I did not have time to yank him out because I woke up too late," Strelkin said in remarks released by authorities. 'Horrible weather conditions' Strelkin, who practices free-diving, managed to unfasten himself, breathe in some air before the cabin filled with water, get out of the aircraft and swim up to the surface. Another survivor, state TV presenter Nikolai Korzhenevsky, appeared to blame the crew for the accident. "For some reason we flew there even though we knew about the horrible weather conditions there," he said. Kamchatka is a vast peninsula popular with adventure tourists for its abundant wildlife, live volcanoes and black sand beaches. The aircraft belongs to a firm called Vityaz-Aero, co-owned by local lawmaker Igor Redkin. Earlier this week, Redkin made headlines in Russia when he admitted to killing a man he mistook for a bear. Officials said the helicopter had been in operation since 1984 but was in good condition. The Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes, said it was looking into a potential violation of air safety rules. The regional prosecutor's office launched a probe to study "the implementation of the legislation on the provision of tourist services". In July, a small plane crashed on the peninsula, killing 19 people when it flew into a cliff. Airplane crashes are fairly common in Russia due to poor maintenance and lax compliance with safety rules.

Eight feared dead as Russia tourist helicopter crashes into lake

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