14 killed after Saudi Aramco helicopter crashed

RIYADH: At least 14 people were killed after a Saudi Aramco helicopter crashed on Sunday in Ras Tanura, located on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast along the Gulf, west of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to initial reports, the helicopter involved was linked to Saudi oil giant Aramco (2222.SE). The cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed.

Aramco had resumed crude oil loadings on Friday at its Ras Tanura terminal after operations were halted for nearly four months.

“The relevant authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash,” the state news agency reported.

The company did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.

The incident occurred at around 6 a.m. local time (0300 GMT), according to state media, which did not provide further details.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, has recently increased shipments as regional producers ramp up oil and gas exports ahead of an interim agreement aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran.