The deceased, a 50-year-old man and a 45-year-old man, were both Italian citizens, according to the police. The deaths were first confirmed by the tourist company Niehku Mountain Villa.
"The two victims were taken to hospital, but it is with deep sorrow that we confirm that their lives could not be saved", writes the company's CEO Johan Lindblom in a press release.
The incident is now being investigated as manslaughter and bodily harm, and according to the police, there is one or more suspects.
They are individuals connected to the company that operated the business, says prosecutor Jonas Fjellström to SVT Norrbotten.
Thursday's avalanche forecast showed a significant risk of avalanches in the area – something that can affect how the accident is investigated, says the prosecutor to P4 Norrbotten.
The helicopter that was swept away by the avalanche was on the ground.
Seven people, including the helicopter pilot, were involved in the accident. Two people were initially missing, but could be dug out of the snow after an hour.
"A group of five skiers from Italy, led by an internationally certified IFMGA mountain guide, went helicopter skiing in Kårsavagge. The mountain guide and two of the guests were caught in an avalanche. The two guests were buried under the snow while the guide stayed on the surface", wrote the company in a press release.
The others involved are said to have escaped unharmed. The pilot was alone in the helicopter when the avalanche came and managed to get out.
