Swiss Helicopter Crash Leaves One Dead during agricultural transport work

A helicopter crash in the Fusshörner region of the Swiss Alps has left one person dead on Saturday. The incident occurred around 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), near the Oberaletsch Glacier in the canton of Valais. 

The helicopter, an AS350 B3 Ecureuil aircraft operated by Valais-based Air-Glaciers, was reportedly conducting agricultural transport work when it crashed under still-unclear circumstances. The aircraft came to rest on its side after an apparent impact with the ground.

A 51-year-old Swiss man onboard was killed in the crash. His identity has not been released. The pilot and flight assistant survived and were transported for medical treatment with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Swiss Transportation Safety Investigation Board (SUST) has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland is conducting a parallel inquiry alongside the Valais cantonal police.

In a statement, Air-Glaciers expressed condolences, saying the company was “deeply saddened by the death of the passenger” and is fully cooperating with investigators.

The rugged terrain and high elevation of the Fusshörner region make aerial operations particularly challenging. Both SUST and Air-Glaciers are working to understand what led to the fatal crash.