Police Helicopter Crashes into Water During Security Exercise in Johor

Casualties unknown • MY

An Airbus AS355N operated by the Royal Malaysian Police crashed into the Sungai Pulai waterway during an aerial demonstration for a nuclear security exercise.

What happened

On 10 July 2025, an Airbus Helicopter AS355N, registration 9M-PHG, was performing an aerial demonstration as part of the MITSATOM 2025 Field Training Exercise. The flight, operated by the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP) PGU Subang unit, was simulating operational deployment scenarios near the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Muara Laut Jetty in Sungai Pulai, Johor.

During the final phase of the display, the aircraft executed a series of pre-planned maneuvers. However, as the helicopter attempted a 180-degree steep turn, the aircraft pitched up and subsequently descended into the water. The impact caused significant structural damage to the fuselage, leading the aircraft to sink. All five occupants—comprising two pilots, one aircrew member, and two police officers—were rescued from the water by nearby vessels. All five individuals sustained serious injuries and were transported to Hospital Sultanah Aminah for treatment.

The investigation

The Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) Malaysia initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances of the crash. Investigators examined the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that the helicopter was maintained by an approved organization and held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness. Meteorological data indicated that while the sky was cloudy, weather conditions were within visual meteorological limits and were not a contributing factor.

Physical examination of the wreckage, which was recovered after being submerged for seven days, revealed that the impact caused several fuselage panels and seats to detach. The investigation also noted that while the pilots were qualified and medically fit, a standard toxicology screening was not performed due to the urgency of medical treatment following the accident.

Findings

  • The aircraft was performing a high-intensity maneuver involving a steep turn and pitch change at the conclusion of a flight sequence.
  • The aircraft impacted the water surface during a descending maneuver following a pitch-up and 180-degree turn.
  • The aircraft was being operated under visual meteorological conditions.
  • There were no reported mechanical malfunctions or known defects in the aircraft's systems prior to the impact.

Safety action

  • The Royal Malaysian Police (PGU) is advised to ensure that event organizers provide comprehensive briefings to all participating agencies regarding operational hazards during joint exercises.
  • The PGU should ensure that a dedicated medical standby unit, including an ambulance, is present at the site of all future aerial demonstrations.

Probable cause

The cause of the impact remains under investigation, though the aircraft was performing a steep, descending maneuver during the final phase of an aerial demonstration.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the null aircraft accident near MY?

An Airbus AS355N operated by the Royal Malaysian Police crashed into the Sungai Pulai waterway during an aerial demonstration for a nuclear security exercise.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on null involved a aircraft, registration 9M-PHG, at MY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The cause of the impact remains under investigation, though the aircraft was performing a steep, descending maneuver during the final phase of an aerial demonstration.

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