September 15, Colombo (LNW): A back-up helicopter escorting President Ranil Wickremesinghe was forced to make an emergency landing on Saturday, prompting an investigation into the incident.
The Sri Lanka Air Force’s Bell 412 (SUH 522) made an unexpected landing in a paddy field in Eppawala due to an unspecified technical issue.
The helicopter, acting as a support unit during the President’s travel, was able to land safely without causing any injuries or property damage.
Local authorities reported that the situation was managed efficiently, with the crew and aircraft remaining unharmed.
Approximately an hour after the landing, the helicopter was cleared to fly back to Colombo, suggesting that the technical issue was either resolved or deemed non-critical enough to warrant a return flight.
The Sri Lanka Air Force has since launched a thorough investigation to identify the cause of the emergency landing. Technical experts are expected to inspect the helicopter to determine whether a mechanical fault, environmental factors, or pilot-related issues led to the unplanned descent.
The incident has raised questions about the preparedness and maintenance of aircraft within the Presidential fleet, although preliminary reports indicate that standard safety protocols were followed effectively.
