Antananarivo - Madagascar's President Marc Ravalomanana has escaped unhurt from a helicopter crash in the south of the Indian Ocean island, state media reported.
Ravalomanana, who finished his visit to the region and then returned to the capital, told a news conference on Thursday that an investigation commission would be set up to probe Wednesday's crash in the town of Imerinimady.
"As in any accident, the one which struck us happened very quickly," Ravalomanana said.
"Fortunately nobody among the seven people on board, including my wife and myself, panicked so it was easier to evacuate everybody without a problem."
Witnesses quoted by state media said the back of the aircraft had caught fire as it was landing.
Ravalomanana came to power in July 2002 after using a blend of people power and military force to oust veteran ruler Didier Ratsiraka following a six-month stand-off.
A charismatic tycoon, Ravalomanana began his career selling yoghurt off the back of a bicycle.