14 Killed in Aramco Helicopter Crash at Ras Tanura

All 14 people aboard a helicopter operated for Saudi Aramco were killed when the aircraft crashed on approach to Ras Tanura Airport in the Eastern Province at around 6:00 a.m. local time on Sunday, 28 June 2026. The victims — 12 passengers and two pilots — were all Saudi nationals, and there were no survivors.

The Leonardo AW139, flown for Aramco by Aloula Aviation, was traveling from an offshore installation to Ras Tanura Airport, supporting offshore oil operations near the kingdom's major crude export terminal and refinery complex on the eastern coast. The two pilots were identified as Captain Mohammed al-Kooheji and Captain Ghaith al-Shibl.

Flight-tracking data indicated a descent rate of more than 1,200 feet The Saudi Ministry of Energy, together with relevant authorities, opened a formal investigation into the causes of the crash. As of early August 2026, the investigation remains ongoing and no official cause has been released.

Officials said the accident is not linked to the conflict with Iran and took place during routine Aramco operations in the Ras Tanura area. Crude oil loading at the Ras Tanura terminal had resumed just two days before the crash, following nearly four months of suspension tied to regional conflict, and loading operations have continued under heightened scrutiny.

For residents and workers across the Eastern Province, the incident is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in offshore energy operations. The community will be watching for the findings of the official investigation, which are expected to inform any future safety measures.

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