History of the Flight
On 10 July 2025, a Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) Airbus Helicopter AS355N Écureuil II, registration 9M-PHG, operated by the Pasukan Gerakan Udara (PGU) Subang unit, was conducting an aerial demonstration as part of the Field Training Exercise (FTX) for the Multilateral Nuclear Security Detection Exercise (MITSATOM 2025). The demonstration took place near the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Muara Laut Jetty, Sungai Pulai, Gelang Patah, Johor.
The flight profile involved coordinated aerial manoeuvres simulating operational deployment scenarios. Two full rehearsals were conducted on 9 July 2025, following a partial rehearsal on 8 July 2025. On the day of the accident, the helicopter departed Tanjung Kupang Police Station under visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and proceeded to the designated area. After executing a series of pre-planned manoeuvres, including low-level passes and coordinated positioning with vessels, the aircraft pitched up, executed a 180-degree steep turn, and descended. For reasons yet to be determined, the helicopter impacted the water surface within the exercise zone.
Injuries
The helicopter carried five occupants: two pilots, one air crew member, and two police officers. All five sustained serious injuries. They were rescued by nearby vessels and transported to Hospital Sultanah Aminah, Johor Bahru, for medical treatment. No fatalities were reported.
Damage to Aircraft
The impact resulted in substantial structural damage. The main fuselage sank rapidly and remained submerged for seven days before recovery. Loose components were collected from the site. A general visual inspection confirmed that the helicopter was destroyed.
Other Damage
No damage was sustained to any objects other than the aircraft.
Personnel Information
Both pilots held valid Commercial Pilot Licenses and medical certificates. Pilot 1 was the Pilot in Command, aged 46, with 1525.5 total flying hours and 1430.0 hours on type. Pilot 2 was the Co-Pilot, also aged 46, with 2120.0 total flying hours and 1716.4 hours on type. Both had rest periods of more than 12 hours prior to the flight.
Aircraft Information
The Airbus Helicopter AS355N (serial number 5620) was manufactured in 1996 and owned by the Royal Malaysia Police. It had a valid Certificate of Airworthiness until 1 February 2026 and Certificate of Registration until 15 June 2026. The aircraft had accumulated 7895.0 total flight hours before the accident.
Investigation
The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) of Malaysia deployed a team on 10 July 2025. The investigation is ongoing in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 protocols. The probable cause has not yet been determined.