Peru Floods & Helicopter Crash: Deaths Rise, Emergency Declared

A Peruvian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter crashed in a mountainous region near the coastal city of Chala, Peru, on Sunday afternoon, killing all 15 people on board, including seven children. The helicopter was en route from Lima to Arequipa when it lost radio contact, according to officials.

The aircraft was conducting a mission to support relief efforts following recent flooding in the Arequipa region, according to the Peruvian Air Force. Heavy rains and landslides have caused widespread damage, disrupting access to communities and leaving residents in need of assistance. The helicopter departed from the city of Pisco in the Ica region.

“Personnel rescuers have confirmed the death of four crew members, as well as 11 passengers who were on board,” the Peruvian Air Force stated, as reported by detikNews.

The crash site was located in a remote area, and rescue teams reached the location late Monday morning, according to reports. Lieutenant General Gregorio César Mendiola Lomparte, the commander of the Air Force operation, confirmed that there were no survivors. “Unfortunately, there were no survivors,” he said during a press conference.

The victims included four crew members identified as Major Sergio Danner Paucar Centurión, First Lieutenant Luis Fernando Huertas Cárcamo, First Class Sergeant Kamila Chapi Anchapuri Jove, and Second Class Sergeant Leiner Aguirre Huamán. The identities of the 11 passengers have not yet been fully released.

The helicopter’s last known communication was via radio near Chala. SkyRouter tracking systems indicated a fixed position east of Chala, near the village of Chala Vieja, shortly before contact was lost. A search and rescue operation was immediately launched with support from the National Police of Peru.

The incident occurred as the Arequipa region continues to grapple with the aftermath of severe flooding and landslides. The flooding has caused extensive damage to infrastructure and homes, leaving many communities isolated. The helicopter was intended to provide support to those affected by the disaster.

The Peruvian Air Force has initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash. As of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, no official statement regarding the cause has been released.