Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — At least 14 people have been confirmed dead after a helicopter operated by Saudi oil giant Saudi Aramco crashed near the Ras Tanura oil terminal in eastern Saudi Arabia on Sunday morning.
According to Saudi authorities, the helicopter went down at approximately 6:00 a.m. local time, killing everyone on board. Officials said all 14 victims were Saudi nationals.
While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine what led to the fatal incident. No evidence has so far suggested that the crash was linked to any security threat or sabotage.
The helicopter was reportedly on an operational flight when the accident occurred near Ras Tanura, home to one of the world’s largest oil export terminals and a critical hub for Saudi Arabia’s energy industry.
The tragedy comes only days after Saudi Aramco resumed crude oil loading operations at Ras Tanura following months of disruptions caused by heightened regional tensions. However, officials have not indicated any connection between those developments and Sunday’s crash.
Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer, has yet to release detailed information about the identities of the victims or the specific mission of the helicopter.
The incident marks one of the deadliest helicopter accidents involving the state-owned energy company in recent years, with aviation investigators expected to examine the aircraft’s flight data, maintenance records, weather conditions, and communications before issuing a final report.
Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.