Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Five Lives in Gilgit-Baltistan
Diamer District, Gilgit-Baltistan — September 1, 2025 — A Pakistan Army MI-17 helicopter crashed in the mountainous Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan, resulting in the deaths of all five crew members on board. The incident occurred around 10:00 AM local time near Hudor village, approximately 12 kilometers from Thakdas Cantonment.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the helicopter was conducting a routine training flight when it developed a technical fault and crashed during a test landing on a newly proposed helipad. The five victims included two pilots, Major Atif and Major Faisal; flight engineer Naib Subedar Maqbool; and crew chiefs Havaldar Jahangir and Naik Amir. All were confirmed dead at the scene.
Background and Context
The helicopter was part of the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps and was being used by the Gilgit-Baltistan government for relief operations in flood-affected areas. The region has been experiencing severe monsoon rains, leading to widespread flooding and displacement of thousands of residents. The crash occurred amid ongoing efforts to provide aid and assess damage in the affected areas.
This incident adds to a series of helicopter crashes in Pakistan in recent months. In August 2025, a government MI-17 helicopter crashed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province during a flood relief mission, killing all five crew members. Another crash in September 2024 resulted in six fatalities due to engine failure. These events highlight the challenges and risks associated with air operations in Pakistan’s rugged terrain.
Official Responses and Investigations
Following the crash, rescue teams and local authorities promptly reached the site to secure the area and recover the bodies. The ISPR has initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the technical failure that led to the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the helicopter’s mechanical issues may have been exacerbated by the challenging mountainous environment.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged support for the ongoing relief efforts in the region. The Pakistan Army has also reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel and improving the reliability of its equipment.
Broader Implications and Public Sentiment
The crash has raised concerns about the safety protocols and maintenance standards of military aircraft used in relief operations. Given the strategic importance of the Gilgit-Baltistan region and its proximity to sensitive borders, ensuring the reliability of military assets is crucial for national security and effective disaster response.
Public sentiment is mixed, with many expressing grief and solidarity with the victims’ families, while others are calling for a thorough review of the military’s aviation safety measures. The incident underscores the need for continuous assessment and improvement of operational procedures to prevent future tragedies.
FAQs
A technical fault during a routine training flight led to the crash of the MI-17 helicopter in Diamer district.
There were five crew members on board, all of whom tragically lost their lives.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the technical failure.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has expressed condolences and pledged support for the ongoing relief efforts in the region.
No, this is the second fatal helicopter crash in Pakistan in recent months, following a similar incident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in August 2025.
Sources:
Washington Post
CTV news
AP News
