Close shave for 4 after helicopter catches fire at Subang airport

A helicopter with four people on board caught fire following a minor explosion just before takeoff at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (SZB) in Subang today.

However, no casualties were reported.

In a statement, the Selangor fire and rescue department said it was alerted to the incident at the KarbonMRO aviation maintenance company, located at the airport, at 12.30pm.

“Four victims managed to escape from the helicopter. Firemen are still working to put out the fire at the location.”

It is learnt that the four male victims, comprising the pilot, his co-pilot and two crew members, are Ukrainians.

Separately, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia said the Kamov Ka-32S helicopter was undergoing an engine ground run as part of maintenance activities just before the incident.

“The runway is currently closed. All flights to and from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, Subang, are currently on hold until further notice.

“Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines.”

CAAM also said the Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will probe the incident.