An Advanced Light Helicopter of the Indian Army crashed in the mountains of north Kashmir in Bandipore district on Wednesday evening killing a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major, who were piloting the chopper.

Defence sources said the ALH had taken off from Mansbal near Safapora and was on a routine night sortie. The Dhruv helicopter of the Army's aviation squadron crashed about 30 minutes after it took off.

Villagers told Rediff.com that they heard a loud bang after which the helicopter went up in flames.

“Bodies of the pilot and co-pilot have been recovered,” a senior police officer said.

A defence spokesman said a court of enquiry has been ordered.