At least four people, including three Colombian tourists from the same family, were killed when a helicopter crashed on a mountainside in Rio de Janeiro's Tijuca National Park on Saturday.

The victims were on a sightseeing flight when the aircraft went down, according to a statement from the Colombian consul in Brazil. The three women, who were identified as a grandmother, aunt, and cousin, were in Rio to celebrate a 15th birthday. The group had split into two to accommodate the helicopter's capacity.

Following the incident, Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere expressed his condolences to the victims' families and called for immediate action to enhance safety protocols for helicopter tours, a popular tourist activity in the city. He suggested a temporary suspension of flights to implement new safety measures and stated that City Hall was collaborating with Brazil's National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).

Mayor Cavaliere emphasized the need for ANAC to intensify oversight of the increasing number of helicopter flights operating in Rio. He pledged the full support of City Hall to assist ANAC in implementing any necessary safety actions. The crash occurred near Vista Chinesa, a well-known lookout point within the expansive Tijuca National Park, a major tourist attraction known for its natural beauty and iconic landmarks.

Helicopter tours have gained significant popularity among tourists seeking aerial views of Rio de Janeiro's landmarks. However, this surge in popularity has also raised concerns about safety regulations and enforcement. The incident on Saturday is not the first fatal helicopter crash in the region.

Just weeks prior, on June 14, six people lost their lives when two helicopters collided in mid-air over the western suburb of Recreio dos Bandeirantes. That earlier incident underscored existing safety worries surrounding air tourism in the city.

Colombian consul general Diana Paez confirmed the identities of the deceased women and highlighted the family's presence in Rio for a significant celebration. The pilot was also among the fatalities. The exact cause of Saturday's crash is currently under investigation by aviation authorities.

Mayor Cavaliere's call for a safety overhaul reflects a growing urgency to address potential risks associated with the popular aerial sightseeing tours. The collaboration between the city government and ANAC aims to ensure that such tragic accidents are prevented in the future, prioritizing the safety of both residents and visitors.