Aramco Helicopter Crash Kills 14, Shares Slip

A helicopter operated by Saudi Aramco crashed in Ras Tanura at 6:00 a.m. local time on June 28, a Saudi Energy Ministry official said. All 14 people on board were killed.

The Energy Ministry confirmed the accident in a statement. It did not release the identities of those aboard or specify the helicopter's mission at the time of the crash. Aramco declined to comment beyond the ministry's statement.

Ras Tanura sits on the Persian Gulf coast and is home to Aramco's largest oil refinery, with a capacity of roughly 550,000 barrels per day, and a major export terminal. The crash site is within the company's operating area. Aramco operates a helicopter fleet for logistics, crew transport, and infrastructure inspection across its oil and gas fields.

Aviation accidents involving company or charter aircraft in the Gulf region are rare. The cause of the crash has not been determined. The ministry said it is investigating the incident and working with Aramco to assess the details. No further briefings were announced.

Aramco shares traded lower on the Saudi Stock Exchange, Tadawul. The stock has gained about 12% year to date on the back of higher crude output targets and stable government dividends, though the accident introduces a temporary operational distraction at one of the world's most valuable energy companies.