A Sri Lankan Air Force helicopter crashed on Friday during a demonstration flight in the eastern part of the country, killing six military personnel, including four army commandos and two air force gunners, officials confirmed.

The incident occurred while the personnel were conducting a training exercise involving a rope jump maneuver. The Bell 212 utility helicopter reportedly lost control and plunged into a lake during the drill.

The Sri Lankan military stated that the crash took place in a remote area in the eastern province, where joint training operations between army and air force units were being held.

“This was a routine demonstration flight aimed at training and readiness. Unfortunately, during a rope deployment maneuver, the aircraft crashed into the lake, resulting in the tragic loss of six of our brave personnel,” a military spokesperson said.

Emergency teams were dispatched immediately, but all six onboard were pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Initial reports suggest that a possible mechanical failure or unexpected turbulence may have contributed to the accident, but military authorities have yet to release a conclusive statement.

The Sri Lankan President and top military officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss and conveyed condolences to the families of the deceased.

The Bell 212, a twin-engine utility helicopter widely used for troop transport and rescue operations, has served in the Sri Lankan Air Force for decades.

This marks one of the deadliest peacetime training accidents in recent years for the Sri Lankan military. (ILKHA)