The commander of the 4th Army Region and six other soldiers were injured when an army helicopter crashed into a tree during an emergency landing in Songkhla on Friday morning.

The Black Hawk helicopter carrying Lt Gen Kriangkrai Srirak, the commander of the 4th Army region, developed engine trouble on departing from Senanarong military camp in Hat Yai district of Songkhla, en route to Sirindhorn camp in Pattani's Yarang district.

The pilot made an emergency landing in Thepha. As the helicopter landed it hit a tree.

The helicopter was carrying the 4th army commander, two pilots, two technicians, another soldier and a photographer, the spokesman said.

All seven on board were injured and were taken to Thepha Hospital. A helicopter was being sent to transfer them to a different hospital.

Lt Gen Kriangkrai sustained only minor injuries, he said.

The 4th Army commander was on an official trip to inspect border provinces, the spokesman said.

The Black Hawk haa been in service for 17 years. An inquiry has been set up into the cause of the crash.