A tourist helicopter crashed near Kalalau Beach off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii, killing three people and injuring two others. The incident occurred Thursday afternoon when a Hughes/MD 500 helicopter operated by Airborne Aviation went down about 100 yards offshore.
Key Takeaways
A tourist helicopter crashed off Kalalau Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, killing three people and injuring two others. Authorities identified two victims as Massachusetts residents Margaret Rimmler, 65, and Patrick Haskell, 59. The crash occurred during a sightseeing tour operated by Airborne Aviation.
- Three killed, two injured in helicopter crash near Kalalau Beach
- Victims include two Massachusetts residents; third victim not yet identified
- Helicopter was operating as part of a doors-off thrill seeker adventure tour
- National Transportation Safety Board leading the investigation
The helicopter was carrying one pilot and four passengers at the time of the crash. Authorities identified two of the victims as Margaret Rimmler, 65, and Patrick Haskell, 59, both from Massachusetts. Notification of next of kin is pending for the third victim.
Rescue personnel from multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Kauai Fire Department, and local police. The survivors were transported to Wilcox Medical Center for treatment.
The helicopter was operated by Airborne Aviation, which offers doors-off sightseeing tours of Kauai's canyons, shoreline, and waterfalls. The company advertises a 'thrill seekers adventure tour' that seats up to four people. According to CBS News, the company has suspended all tours following the crash.
The area where the helicopter crashed is situated on the Na Pali Coast on Kauai's North Shore, known for its tall seaside cliffs and sharp mountain ridges. However, its geography can also contribute to turbulent air patterns and quick weather changes that pose hazards for aviation, as reported by Sky News.
Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami praised the coordinated efforts of first responders in a statement reported by PBS News Hour and BBC News. He told Hawaii News Now: 'Here on Kauai, whenever somebody puts their feet on our soil, they're one of ours, we treat them like one of ours, they're a part of our family, and our first responders respond with that spirit in mind.' The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the crash. The NTSB will examine the helicopter once it's removed from the water, as reported by CBS News.
At least 16 people have died in helicopter crashes in Hawaii over the past seven years, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Federal Aviation Administration implemented new safety protocols for air tour operators in Hawaii last year, including recommendations for pilot training and aircraft equipment.
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