A single-engine M20J aircraft crashed on the Rize-Bayburt border in northeastern Türkiye, killing the pilot, Mehmet Demirci, authorities have confirmed.

The plane was en route from Sivrihisar, Eskişehir, to Rize when the incident occurred.

The wreckage was located by Türkiye’s Gendarmerie Search and Rescue (JAK) team, according to Rize Governor İhsan Selim Baydaş. The sole passenger, Hicran Kaya, was rescued with injuries. In a distressed call to a DHA reporter, Ms. Kaya said, “Our plane crashed into the mountain. I don’t know where we are. Help us, we are dying.”

An immediate search and rescue operation was launched, involving teams from the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) and a military helicopter. The Ministry of National Defence also deployed two night vision-capable helicopters to support the effort.

Rescuers found Ms. Kaya alive, waving for help, but Mr. Demirci was pronounced dead at the scene. The experienced pilot, who had been flying since 2008, was reportedly on a solo world tour and had planned to continue his journey after dropping off Ms. Kaya in Rize.

The cause of the crash is under investigation, and rescue teams remain at the site to secure the area. (ILKHA)