Video footage has surfaced showing a tragic incident involving a Russian helicopter that crashed into a pier, resulting in the deaths of five senior employees from a Russian defense manufacturer. The event occurred in the Republic of Dagestan on November 7, 2023. The pilot’s decision to take off again after a botched landing has raised questions about the actions taken during the emergency.
The harrowing video captures the moment the helicopter, a Ka-226 utility model, clipped its tail on the pier, causing significant damage. Instead of landing safely, the pilot chose to head out over the Caspian Sea, possibly in search of another landing site. This decision proved disastrous as the helicopter subsequently lost control and crashed.
Another video, reportedly from a nearby CCTV camera, shows the helicopter crashing into a residential building before erupting in flames. The footage has garnered attention on social media platforms, particularly on the r/aviation subreddit, where users expressed confusion over the pilot’s choices. One commenter reflected on the situation, stating, “Once they landed in the water I was thinking about the adage that this was a good landing — then they took off again.”
Among the victims of this tragic accident were employees of the Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant (KEMZ), a defense manufacturer that has been subject to sanctions by the United States due to its involvement in producing aviation equipment utilized in military operations against Ukraine. The loss of these executives raises concerns not only about the safety of military operations but also about the implications for the defense industry in Russia.
The incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with aviation operations in the region, particularly those involving military and defense-related activities. Investigations into the cause of the crash are likely to focus on the decision-making process of the pilot as well as mechanical factors that may have contributed to the tragic outcome.
As authorities assess the situation, the impact of this incident on the Russian defense sector and its international relations remains to be seen. The loss of skilled personnel from KEMZ may affect the company’s operations and its ability to fulfill contracts amid existing sanctions.
