Final Report on Helicopter Crash of Former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi
On Sunday, Iranian state television announced the conclusion of the investigation into the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of former President Ebrahim Raisi and his delegation on May 19. The final report, compiled by a committee of military and civilian experts, attributes the crash to complex weather conditions, specifically a mass of fog that caused the helicopter to collide with mountainous terrain.
Investigation Findings Reveal No Mechanical Failures
The thorough investigation included an examination of the helicopter's technical, engineering, and navigational conditions. Experts reviewed maintenance records for the past four years and found no discrepancies. Flight paths were meticulously analyzed, confirming that the helicopter adhered to its intended route from Tabriz to various locations, including the Qez Qaleh Si Dam. Notably, the pilot's laptop was restored, and no mechanical failures were detected in the helicopter's systems prior to the crash.
No Evidence of Foul Play
The report also addressed the possibility of foul play, ruling out any involvement of offensive or defensive systems, electronic warfare, or magnetic interference. Additionally, the forensic review indicated no suspicious findings from toxicology and pathology tests on the deceased. This report comes after Raisi's helicopter was returning from an official visit to Azerbaijan, where he inaugurated a joint dam project with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
- The investigation into the helicopter crash has been a focal point of public interest, given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other key officials. The crash occurred shortly after Raisi's visit to Azerbaijan, highlighting the diplomatic connections between the two nations. The tragic incident has raised concerns over aviation safety and the protocols in place for high-ranking officials during their travels.
