Weather and Weight Caused Fatal Iran Helicopter Crash

A helicopter crash that killed Iran's ex-President Ebrahim Raisi in May was due to bad weather and excessive weight, according to a final investigation report cited by Iran's semi-official news agency. The crash, which had no signs of foul play, occurred near the Azerbaijan border.

A helicopter crash that claimed the life of Iran's former President Ebrahim Raisi in May was attributed to adverse weather conditions and the aircraft's inability to manage its load, revealed a final investigation report from a security source via Iran's semi-official news agency.

Iran's military previously noted in a preliminary report that no signs of foul play were detected during inspections. 'The investigation into Ayatollah Raisi's helicopter crash has concluded with complete certainty it was an accident,' a security source informed Fars news agency.

The investigation identified two primary factors: unsuitable weather conditions and an overloaded helicopter, which resulted in it striking a mountain. The aircraft was reportedly carrying two individuals beyond security protocol limits, the source stated.

Raisi, known as a hardliner and potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, perished in the crash that happened in rough mountainous terrain near the Azerbaijan border.

(With inputs from agencies.)