Air Force Helicopter Crash Claims Six Lives; Investigation Launched

by Zulfick Farzan 09-05-2025 | 12:37 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); In a devastating incident, a Bell 212 helicopter belonging to the Sri Lanka Air Force's No. 7 Squadron crashed into the Maduru Oya Reservoir at approximately 8:17 AM today (9).

According to Air Force spokesperson Group Captain Eranda Geeganage, six individuals tragically lost their lives in the crash.

The victims include four members of the Sri Lanka Army Special Forces and two Air Force gunners. Their bodies have been transported to the Polonnaruwa General Hospital.

Among the survivors are the two pilots of the helicopter, who are currently receiving treatment at hospitals in Polonnaruwa and Aralaganwila.

The helicopter was carrying 12 military personnel at the time of the accident.

The Bell 212 helicopter had taken off from the Hingurakgoda Air Force Base at 6:47 AM, heading towards Maduru Oya for a drill exhibition.

The cause of the crash is yet to be determined, and an investigation team comprising nine members has been appointed by the Air Force Commander to probe the incident.