15 Killed in Peru Military Helicopter Crash
Last update: February 23, 2026
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Aircraft was on flood relief mission when it lost contact and went down in Arequipa region.
Fifteen people were killed when a Peruvian Air Force helicopter crashed in the Arequipa region, authorities said on Monday.
The Russian made Mi 17 aircraft lost radio contact on Sunday afternoon while carrying out rescue operations for victims of severe flooding that has caused widespread destruction in southern Peru. A search operation was launched shortly after communication was lost.
On Monday, the Peruvian Air Force confirmed that rescue teams had located the wreckage near the town of Chala in Arequipa, more than 300 kilometers from where the helicopter had taken off.
In a statement, the air force said rescue personnel confirmed the deaths of all 15 people on board, including four crew members and 11 passengers.
CBI News reports that the helicopter had departed from the city of Pisco in the Ica region as part of ongoing efforts to assist communities affected by heavy rains and floods.
Authorities have not yet announced the cause of the crash, and an investigation is expected to be launched.
