In a developing situation in Russia’s Far East, a Mi-8T helicopter with 22 people aboard has gone missing near the Vachkazhets volcano on the Kamchatka Peninsula. According to local governor Vladimir Solodov, the helicopter disappeared on Saturday while en route from a site near the volcano to the village of Nikolaevka.
The aircraft, which carried 19 passengers and three crew members, was navigating through challenging weather conditions, including low visibility, drizzle, and fog, as reported by Russian state media TASS. No mechanical issues had been reported by the crew prior to the disappearance.
Following the helicopter’s last known position, search efforts have been underway. A search helicopter was deployed to the area, and ground rescue teams are combing the Bystraya River valley, which the helicopter was expected to traverse.
Governor Solodov confirmed that search operations continued into the evening, despite poor weather conditions and darkness. The Kamchatka investigative department for transport has launched an inquiry into potential violations of traffic safety and air transport regulations.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are working diligently to locate the missing helicopter and ensure the safety of those on board.
