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A horrifying aviation accident was caught on camera in southern Russia after a Russian Ka-226 helicopter caught fire mid-air and crashed, killing five people on board. Dramatic footage circulating on social media shows the aircraft struggling to take off from a sandy beachfront before spiralling out of control, bursting into flames and crashing to the ground moments later. 

The clip begins with the helicopter tilting dangerously while trying to lift off near the shoreline. Witnesses can be heard shouting as the aircraft hovers low above the water, fighting strong gusts and visible structural damage. The helicopter’s tail appears broken, leaving the pilot with limited directional control.

Despite the damage, the pilot manages to lift the aircraft slightly higher, gliding over shallow waters in a seemingly desperate attempt to gain altitude. For a brief moment, the chopper remains airborne, offering a glimmer of hope. However, control issues quickly worsen, and the helicopter veers erratically as waves crash beneath it.

Crash Landing Attempt Ends In Flames

The pilot appears to aim toward land, likely searching for a safe emergency landing spot. As the helicopter approaches the shore, it suddenly begins to spin wildly. Seconds later, it crashes violently onto the ground, erupting into flames.

Horror footage shows the wreckage burning intensely as thick black smoke rises into the sky. Firefighters rush to the scene, struggling to extinguish the flames consuming the aircraft’s twisted frame.

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Five Dead, Key Officials Among Victims

The regional health ministry confirmed that four of the passengers died at the scene, while a fifth victim later succumbed to injuries in the hospital. Two others remain in critical care.

According to Russian media, the victims included the deputy general director, chief engineer, and chief designer from the Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant (KEMZ), along with the helicopter’s flight mechanic. Their deaths are considered a major blow to the defence-linked facility.

Sanctioned Military Manufacturer

The helicopter reportedly belonged to staff at the Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant, a key manufacturer of ground control and diagnostic systems used in Sukhoi and MiG attack aircraft. The plant has faced Western sanctions over its alleged support of Russia’s war machinery in Ukraine, putting it under significant international scrutiny. 

Russian investigators have opened an inquiry into the accident. Early reports suggest a technical malfunction is the most likely cause. State news agency TASS stated, “A technical failure is being considered the main version of what caused the incident.”

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