10 dead after mid-air collision between Malaysian Navy Helicopters

Ten people were killed after a collision between two Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) Helicopters over Lumut Naval Base, Perak. 

In a statement, TLDM said ‘All victims were confirmed dead at the scene and sent to the Lumut Naval Base Military Hospital for Identification’ 

The helicopters, a Eurocopter Fennec Military Chopper from 502 Squadron and a Augusta Westland AW139 Maritime Operations Helicopter from 503 Squadron, both of which are used by the TLDM, were part of an aerial display rehearsal to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the TLDM. In a video circulating on local media, one of the helicopters seems to have impacted the tail rotor of the other helicopter, after which both aircraft entered a spin. Debris could be seen right after the contact. The AW139 crashed into the stairs of the TLDM Stadium, while the Fennec crashed into a swimming pool in the Naval Base. 

TLDM also mentioned in the same statement that an investigation body would be formed so as to determine the cause of the incident. In light of the incident, TLDM’s 90th Anniversary Celebrations would be postponed, with prayers to be held for the victims.