14 killed after Saudi Aramco helicopter crashes in Ras Tanura, investigation underway
The helicopter went down in the Ras Tanura area, a key oil-export terminal in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash.
PTC News Desk: A helicopter operated by Saudi oil company Aramco crashed on Sunday in Ras Tanura on Saudi Arabia's eastern coast, west of the Strait of Hormuz, killing 14 people, according to Saudi state media.
The helicopter went down in the Ras Tanura area, a key oil-export terminal in Saudi Arabia. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the crash.
The accident occurred shortly after Aramco resumed crude oil loading operations at its Ras Tanura terminal on Friday. The facility had reportedly suspended operations for nearly four months before restarting them.
Saudi officials said an investigation has been launched, with the participation of relevant authorities, to determine what caused the helicopter to crash.
The Ministry of Energy stated that the cause of the accident remains unknown and that inquiries are ongoing. The ministry also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
The crash comes at a time when Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern energy producers have been increasing oil and gas production and exports following an interim agreement aimed at halting the conflict between the United States and Iran.