IAF Mi-17V5 Cargo Chopper Catches Fire, Crash Lands Killing One

Indian Air Force (IAF) newly acquired cargo helicopter from Russia, Mi-17V5 caught fire while it collided with iron girder while landing in Uttarakhand killing one person Wednesday.

The helicopter reported caught fire while it was attempting to land in a helipad near the Kedarnath temple. It was carrying construction material from Guptkashi to Kedarnath . All six IAF personnel on board are safe though the pilot sustained minor injuries on leg.

“Today morning around 0810h one Mi-17 V5 helicopter of IAF crashed near Kedarnath. All persons on-board are safe. A Court of Inquiry will ascertain the cause of the accident,” the IAF in an official statement said.

India has 148 Mi-17 V5 helicopters ordered in 2012. It has further approved purchase of additional 48 Mi-17 V5 helicopters for US $1.1billion of which 16 will be used for VVIP transport.