Rescue operation for missing Mi-8 helicopter gets reinforcements

The search operation for the Mi-8 helicopter missing in Taimyr, Asia's northernmost peninsula, has now focused on the Eclipse Bay, an intermediate point in its itinerary, the Taimyr administration's press service reports.

According to its press service, the Taimyr administration has approached First Deputy Transport Minister Alexander Neradko, in charge of the State Civil Aviation Service's Rescue Center, with a request to send over an IL-38 plane, provided with equipment for ground, sea, and submarine search.

Yuri Galushko, in charge of the rescue group, says the IL-38 can make a considerable contribution to the rescue operation, which involves two other planes and three helicopters.

The Mi-8 helicopter, with 21 people on board, has been missing since July 10.