Chinook crashes in eastern Afghanistan

WASHINGTON, June 28 (UPI) -- A CH-47 helicopter crashed in eastern Afghanistan Tuesday while transporting troops into a counter-terrorist operation, U.S. Central Command said.

The helicopter went down in the mountains near the border with Pakistan, an area of heavy insurgent activity, Central Command said.

The CH-47 Chinook can carry up to 33 passengers. There was no word initially on survivors. Fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters are protecting the crash site, providing close air support, Central Command said.

So far in fiscal year 2005, which began on Oct. 1, 2004, there have been four fatal CH-47 accidents that have claimed 15 lives.