On April 23, 2024, at approximately 9:30 local time in Lumut, Malaysia, a tragic accident occurred when two Malaysian navy helicopters collided mid-air during a rehearsal for a military parade. This unfortunate incident resulted in the death of all 10 crew members on board. The helicopters crashed into the ground after one of them clipped the rotor of the other as shown in footage published by local media.
Both helicopters involved in the accident were a HOM M503-3 and a Fennec M502-6. The HOM M503-3, which was carrying seven crew members, crashed onto a running track while the Fennec M502-6, with three crew members on board, crashed into a nearby swimming pool. Rescue personnel were on site to remove debris from the wreckage.
The Royal Malaysian Navy confirmed that all victims were deceased at the scene and their remains were sent to Lumut Military Hospital for identification. A committee has been formed to investigate the cause of this terrible incident. The Perak Fire and Rescue Department responded to this incident after being alerted at approximately 9:50 local time.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his condolences to the families of those affected by this tragedy and offered prayers for strength to cope with this loss. This recent event follows another tragic helicopter crash involving Malaysia’s coast guard in March where all passengers were rescued by fishermen after their helicopter crashed into sea near Angsa Island during training flight.