Six soldiers lost their lives, and one more was severely injured after two military helicopters collided during a training exercise in southwestern Turkey. The incident occurred in Isparta province, specifically in the Keçiborlu area, which hosts a Turkish Army Aviation School. The helicopters were performing routine drills when the crash occurred.
According to Turkey’s Ministry of Defence, the tragic accident involved a UH-1 helicopter, which crashed during a scheduled military training flight. The one soldier who survived the crash was rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.
Governor Abdullah Erin confirmed that the two helicopters were involved in a mid-air collision during their exercise. “As a result of the collision, one of the helicopters crashed, and tragically, six of our military personnel have died,” Erin explained. Local media reported that one of the deceased was Colonel Isa Baydilli, the commander of the Aviation School.
Kosovo’s Minister of Defence, Ejup Maqedonci, expressed his shock and condolences upon hearing the news. “I am deeply saddened by the fatal air accident that took place in Isparta. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Turkish government, the Ministry of Defence, the Turkish Armed Forces, and the families of the fallen soldiers,” Maqedonci said in a Facebook post.
Kosovo’s FSK Personnel Safe
Maqedonci further reassured the public that Kosovo’s Armed Forces (FSK) personnel currently training at the Turkish Aviation School were safely away from the crash site. “Our FSK members, who are attending training at this military base, were located far from the incident and are safe,” he confirmed.
He added, “In these difficult moments, we share the sorrow with the Turkish people. May the martyrs never be forgotten.”
