HANALEI (HawaiiNewsNow) – Three people are dead and two others were injured after a helicopter crashed on Kauai Thursday.
According to a preliminary report, police were notified at around 3:45 p.m. that a helicopter crashed into the ocean near Kalalau Beach.
The U.S. Coast Guard said the crash occurred approximately 100 yards offshore.
The Hughes 500 helicopter operated by Airborne Aviation carried one pilot and four passengers, authorities said.
The two survivors were taken to Wilcox Medical Center for treatment, officials said.
Personnel and resources from the Kauai fire and police departments, the Kauai Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Coast Guard, American Medical Response, the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources responded.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating.
Airborne Aviation released the following statement Friday:
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our helicopters was involved in an accident in the waters off of Kalalau Beach yesterday.
There were five individuals on board. Two individuals survived and are currently receiving medical care. Tragically, three individuals did not survive. Our hearts are with the families and loved ones affected by this devastating event, and we extend our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time.
Our immediate priority is supporting the victims, their families, and our team members. We are fully cooperating with the appropriate authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, as they conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of this incident.
At this time, we are working to gather all available information and will provide updates as they become available. Out of respect for those involved, we will not be releasing additional details until families have been notified and more facts are confirmed.
Safety has always been the foundation of our operations, and we are committed to understanding exactly what occurred.
We ask for privacy for the families and all those impacted.”
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