Russia searches for missing helicopter with 22 on board

The helicopter went down while carrying tourists in Russia's far-east, officials say.

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The Mi-8T helicopter took off from a base near the Vachkazhets volcano in the Kamchatka peninsula, the emergencies ministry said on Saturday.

That area of the peninsula is a popular tourist destination, famous for its rich landscapes and active volcanoes.

Officials say the helicopter disappeared from radar shortly after take off, adding that thick fog is hampering rescuers' efforts.

The helicopter, owned by Vityaz-Aero, was carrying out a trip to the volcano. Designed during the Soviet-era, the Mi-8 helicopter remains popular and widely used in Russia.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c70jdn4q0wro

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