The search operation launched after a helicopter crashed off the coast of western Norway has been called off and all 13 people on board are presumed dead, rescue officials said.

Boerge Galta, of the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre, said "we do not believe anyone can be found alive".

The operation was called off at 5pm local time on Friday after 11 bodies were found.

The cause of the crash was not immediately known.

The Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority said it is immediately banning helicopters of the same type as the one that crashed - Airbus Helicopters EC225LP - from flying in the Scandinavian country or near Norwegian offshore facilities.

The government agency said its decision is "due to the fatal accident", and the ban "would remain in force until revoked".

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