Wing Commander Siyambalapitiya Dies in Wennappuwa Crash

 The pilot of a Sri Lanka Air Force helicopter, which was engaged in relief and rescue operations for people affected by adverse weather conditions, died after the aircraft met with a sudden accident this afternoon (30) in the Lunuvila area.

The pilot, who sustained serious injuries in the accident, was admitted to Marawila Base Hospital for treatment but tragically passed away while receiving care. The deceased has been identified as Wing Commander Siyambalapitiya, a 41-year-old senior Air Force officer.

The Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 helicopter encountered this accident this afternoon while conducting disaster observation and relief supply operations in the area between Lunuvila and Wennappuwa.

The aircraft had departed to provide relief to the severely affected residents of Lunuvila and Wennappuwa due to the disaster. It is reported that five Air Force personnel, including the deceased pilot, were on board at the time of the accident, and all of them were promptly admitted to Marawila Base Hospital following the crash.

Video related to the incident click here