Nineteen people were killed after a helicopter crashed in Yakutia, north-eastern Siberia. There were 25 passengers on board, according to information provided by the local Interior Ministry, and 3 crew members.

The pilot reportedly lost control of the aircraft and crashed into a mountain.

The deputy minister of Yakutia, as well as emergency service workers, the staff of the Special Department of Russia’s Investigative Committee, and transport police are at the scene of the incident.

The chopper was flying from the village of Deputatsky to Kazachye village.

Earlier reports suggested that the helicopter had crash landed 45 kilometers from Deputatsky. The helicopter is considered the main means of transport in the region, mainly due to the harsh climate.

According to the Interstate Aviation Committee, the helicopter was flying with Polar Airlines, based in the city of Yakutsk.

Russia has a dismal record of aviation safety, mostly blamed on poor safety standards and an aging fleet.

Sources:RT.com and bbc.co.uk