Fifteen Killed in Peru Helicopter Crash During Flood Rescue Operations

A Peruvian Air Force helicopter crashed on Sunday, February 23, 2026, while providing rescue services during severe flooding in the Arequipa region of southern Peru, resulting in the deaths of all fifteen people on board. The tragedy occurred as the aircraft was supporting search and rescue efforts in the wake of torrential rains and mudslides.

Details of the Crash

The Mi-17 helicopter lost radio contact while operating in the Arequipa region, according to the Peruvian Air Force. The wreckage was located on Monday in the Chala district. Among the victims were eleven passengers and four crew members, including seven children, with the youngest being just three years old. Other children killed in the crash were aged ten, fourteen (three), fifteen, and seventeen.

Rescue Mission and Conditions

The helicopter had been deployed to assist in search and rescue operations as the region grappled with widespread damage caused by mudslides and overflowing rivers. It was traveling from the city of Pisco, in the Ica region, to Chala in Arequipa to carry out a support mission. Heavy rain reportedly complicated search efforts.

Victims Identified

The Peruvian Air Force has released the names of the four crew members: Sergio Danner Paucar Centurión, Luis Fernando Huertas Cárcamo, Kamila Chapi Anchapuri Jove, and Leiner Aguirre Huamán. The adult passengers who perished were identified as Colonel FAP Javier Nole Gonzales, 50, Elisa Bernel Paredes, 49, and Zoila Fernandez Medina, 45.

Ongoing Investigation and Condolences

An investigation into the cause of the crash has been launched by Peruvian officials. The Peruvian Air Force expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends, and the entire FAP family for the loss of the crew and passengers, stating, “Our deepest condolences to the family members, friends, and the entire FAP family for the irreparable loss of our crew and passengers.”

Wider Impact of Flooding

The Arequipa region has been severely impacted by recent flooding, with at least two other fatalities reported due to the storms. An elderly woman was carried away by floodwaters in the Cayma district, and a man died after being struck by lightning. Regional Governor Rohel Sánchez has requested assistance from the national government as homes have been damaged and declared uninhabitable.

Sole Survivor

Remarkably, a compact dog was the sole survivor of the crash, adding a poignant note to the tragedy.