Kochi: A Naval sailor was 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 mishap took place at IN
S Garuda of Southern Naval Command during routine maintenance taxi checks, PTI reported quoting Defence sources.
It was initially believed to be a crash, but 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,” a Navy spokesperson said.
The deceased was identified as R Hari Kumar, a Leading Air Mechanic (LAM).
“Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS (chief of naval staff) & all personnel of #IndianNavy mourn the loss of life & pay tribute to Yogendra Singh, LAM who lost his life in the unfortunate accident at Kochi and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” the spokesperson said on X.
A full-fledged inquiry has been launched by the Navy.