Published on, Aug. 16 -- August 16, 2025 7:21 PM

A humanitarian mission in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa turned tragic when a government-operated MI-17 helicopter crashed in severe weather, killing five experienced crew members. The helicopter was delivering relief supplies to flood-hit Bajaur district when dense fog and bad weather caused the crash.

The crew included highly skilled veterans with strong military backgrounds. Pilot Colonel (Retd) Shahid Sultan, from Abbottabad, was a decorated Pakistan Army officer known for flying top dignitaries. Co-pilot Wing Commander (Retd) Aftab, from Lahore, had served in the Pakistan Air Force. Both had recently retired but continued serving in humanitarian roles.

Flight Engineer Saleem from Talagang, a re...