Naval sailor killed in Chetak helicopter accident in Kochi

Kochi: A Naval sailor was killed killed here on Saturday when a Chetak helicopter was involved in a “ground accident” at a naval air station here, the Indian Navy said.

The Navy ordered a probe into the matter.

The incident occurred at INS Garuda of the Southern Naval Command during routine maintenance taxi checks, Defence sources said.

While initially it was believed to be a crash, officials later clarified it was a mechanical failure.

“A Chetak helicopter met with a ground accident today during maintenance taxi checks at INS Garuda, Kochi, resulting in the unfortunate loss of life of one ground crew,” it said.