The final investigation into the May helicopter crash that killed former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has determined that bad weather was the main cause. The helicopter, carrying 63-year-old Raisi and his team, crashed into a fog-covered mountainside in northern Iran, resulting in the deaths of Raisi and seven others. This tragedy led to immediate snap elections.
The investigation revealed that the “complex climatic and atmospheric conditions” of the region during spring were the primary factors in the accident. State broadcaster IRIB reported that a sudden thick mass of dense fog caused the helicopter to collide with the mountain.
In response to the crash, Iran’s army announced in May that they found no evidence of criminal activity. The crash also claimed the life of Raisi’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
In August, News Agency reported that the crash was caused by bad weather and the helicopter carrying two extra passengers, which violated security protocols. However, the Iranian armed forces quickly rejected these claims, stating that the information about extra passengers was “completely false.”
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The final report confirms that extreme weather, rather than human error or criminal activity, caused the helicopter crash. The investigation highlights how unpredictable weather conditions, such as sudden fog, can significantly impact flight safety. The report also emphasizes the importance of thorough weather assessments before any flight, particularly in challenging environments. The tragic event serves as a reminder of the crucial need for accurate weather forecasting and safety protocols in aviation. The final findings aim to provide closure and prevent similar incidents in the future.