A helicopter crashed in a rice field in the northeastern Khon Kaen province at about 9am today, resulting in at least three deaths.
The helicopter, which belonged to Heliluck Aviation Co. Ltd., was found engulfed in flames, with parts scattered across the field in Chonnabot district. Three bodies have been found so far, although it was unclear how many people were on board, reported Thairath.
Confirmed dead at this point are 51-year-old Seksorn Wanna, a resident of Phetchabun province, and Wanchai Khunwaratisai, a pilot for SFS Aviation, which provides helicopter service for oil and gas companies.
After an initial on-site investigation, Pol. Col. Kiratikorn Omrapaypakin, a Chonnabot police superintendent, said poor visibility due to rain and dense clouds was likely the cause.
Lt. Col. Attaya Lapmak, director of Khon Kaen Airport, reported that the helicopter was flying from central Saraburi province and had requested clearance to fly through Khon Kaen before they lost contact.
Coconuts Bangkok will update the story with new information as the investigation unfolds.
