Eura, Finland – May 17, 2025
A tragic mid-air collision between two helicopters in southwestern Finland has claimed the lives of all five people on board. The accident occurred near the town of Eura, just after noon on Saturday, when the helicopters crashed approximately 700 meters from the Ohikulkutie road, not far from Eura Airport.
Both helicopters involved in the crash were Robinson R-44 models, one registered in Estonia and the other in Austria. The aircraft were operated by Estonian companies and were en route to Piikajärvi Airport in Kokemäki to take part in a hobby aviation event organized by the Pori Aviation Club.
Authorities reported that the helicopters had departed together from Linnahall Heliport in Tallinn, Estonia. Witnesses said the two aircraft were flying in close proximity before one appeared to abruptly shift direction, resulting in the mid-air collision. One helicopter had two occupants and the other had three. There were no survivors.
Among the victims was 65-year-old Oleg Sõnajalg, a well-known Estonian businessman and co-founder of a television channel. The identities of the other four individuals have not been released pending family notification.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation has launched a full inquiry into the incident, with cooperation from local law enforcement and Estonian authorities. Investigators are currently working to determine the exact cause of the crash, with flight data, weather conditions, and maintenance records all expected to be examined.
The aviation community has expressed shock and sorrow at the incident. The Pori Aviation Club, which had invited the helicopters to the event, conveyed condolences to the families and pledged support throughout the investigation.
This marks one of the most serious aviation accidents in Finland in recent memory, prompting renewed calls for stringent flight safety regulations in civilian and hobbyist aviation.