Search intensifies for missing helicopter in Russia's Far East

Three helicopters are continuing search operations for a Robinson R44 helicopter that disappeared in Russia's Primorsky Krai after losing contact during a flight on June 21, Russian authorities said.

According to the Eastern Interregional Transport Investigation Department of Russia's Investigative Committee, the search effort has been expanded as rescuers attempt to locate the aircraft and its two occupants, Russian media reports. 

The Robinson R44, operated by Granat Airlines, departed from a helipad in the village of Terney on June 21 and was en route to the settlement of Edinka to conduct forestry-related operations. The helicopter was carrying a pilot and a flight observer.

Authorities said the crew failed to establish contact at the scheduled time, prompting a search and rescue operation.

A Mi-8 helicopter operated by UTair–Helicopter Services, carrying rescue personnel, was deployed shortly after the aircraft was reported missing. Two additional helicopters from Granat Airlines later joined the search in coordination with Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsiya).

Investigators have opened a criminal case under Article 263 of the Russian Criminal Code, which covers violations of air traffic and aircraft operation safety regulations resulting in the death of two or more persons. Officials noted that such investigations are routinely launched in cases involving missing aircraft and potential aviation accidents.

By Sabina Mammadli