The commercial helicopter, which was shot down in Iraq, killing at least three Bulgarians, is owned by Bulgarian air carrier Heli Air, according to reports of the Bulgarian National Radio.

At least three Bulgarians and six other people whose nationality is still not clear have died after a Mi-8 commercial helicopter was shot down in Iraq on Thursday, Bulgaria's Defence Ministry confirmed.

According to world media reports the Russian-built aircraft was flying just north of Baghdad when it was hit, possibly by a rocket-propelled grenade. The three-member Bulgarian crew and six passengers, all civilians, were on board.

Heli Air representatives confirmed the company's helicopters are conducting commercial flights to Iraq, most often carrying cargo onboard.

The company is now trying to get into contact with the crew of all its planes.

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