Helicopter Crash in Kamchatka Kills 22

A Mi-8 helicopter operated by Vityaz-Aero crashed in Russia's Kamchatka region on August 31, 2024, killing all 22 people on board, including 19 tourists. The helicopter disappeared from radar shortly after taking off from a site near the Vachkazhets volcano, with initial investigations suggesting dense fog may have contributed to the crash. Local authorities launched an extensive search operation, which included helicopters and rescue teams, but found no survivors. The wreckage was located at an altitude of 900 meters, confirming the tragic outcome. This incident raises concerns about the safety of tourist flights in remote areas of Russia, known for its unpredictable weather conditions. The local governor has indicated that a formal investigation into the crash is underway, focusing on operational safety guidelines.