Peruvian Air Force Mi-17/171 Destroyed

A Peruvian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter crashed near Chala Viejo in the Caravelí province, Arequipa region, during flood relief operations on February 23. The aircraft lost radio contact while transporting military personnel, their family members, and children from flood-affected areas. After an intensive search, the wreckage was located the following day with all 15 occupants confirmed dead, including four crew members, a FAP colonel, three women, and seven children aged 3 to 17. The helicopter had been supporting search and rescue efforts following severe flooding and landslides in southern Peru.