{
  "id": 14914750,
  "title": "Preliminary report on helicopter crash in Long Lellang released; probe ongoing",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/preliminary-report-on-helicopter-crash-in-long-lellang-released-probe",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-16T08:59:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Vibes",
    "slug": "the-vibes",
    "url": "https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/128422/preliminary-report-on-helicopter-crash-in-long-lellang-released-probe-ongoing"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The preliminary report on the helicopter crash in Long Lellang, which occurred on September 8, 2026, reveals that the investigation is still in its early stages. The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has stated that the factual data gathered so far remains at an early stage, and the actual cause of the tragedy has yet to be determined.\n\nThe helicopter, a Bo-105 operated by the Flying Doctor Service, crashed near the Long Lellang STOLport, claiming the lives of five individuals on board. The report notes that the helicopter was considered airworthy at the time of the incident, holding valid Certificates of Registration and Airworthiness. However, any implications for the airworthiness of other engines of the same type have not yet been determined.\n\nThe investigation has uncovered no damage or defects related to the helicopter's airframe, maintenance, or the pilot. The engine, however, has been sent to the manufacturer's facility for further inspection. An engineer from the engine manufacturer has joined the on-site investigation as a technical expert.\n\nThe wreckage from the helicopter was extensively damaged, both by fire and impact with the ground. Major wreckage and related materials were found near the crash site, while smaller components were collected for further examination. The helicopter was equipped with two Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engines, manufactured in 1989 and 1976, respectively.\n\nA 37-second video recording captured the final moments of the flight, showing a plume of smoke and flames behind the main gearbox. The origin, progression, and sequence of the fire are still under investigation. The AAIB emphasizes that the findings from the detailed examination of the wreckage and engine analysis will be incorporated into the final investigation report.",
  "summary": "MORE than a month after the Bo-105 helicopter crash in Long Lellang on September 8, which claimed five lives, investigators have yet to determine the actual cause of the tragedy. In a preliminary report released today, the Air Accident Investigation ...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malaysiakini",
        "title": "FDS heli crash: Preliminary report finds facility flaws, victims died from blaze, not impact",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/fds-heli-crash-preliminary-report-finds-facility-flaws-victims-died",
        "published": "2026-10-16T12:00:30.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}