One person has been confirmed dead and two others are missing after a helicopter crashed into the ocean off the coast of Kauai on Thursday afternoon.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, three people were on board a Robinson R44 helicopter that crashed off the Na Pali coast around 2 p.m.
Officials said hikers along the Kalalau Trail witnessed the helicopter crash into the water and reported the incident to dispatchers.
According to a preliminary report, one of the passengers was found and pronounced dead an hour after the crash.
One person is dead and two others are missing after a helicopter crashed into the ocean off the coast of Kauai on Thursday afternoon
Mayor Derek SK Kawakami offered his condolences, saying, “We are deeply saddened to hear of today’s tragic loss and of the two other individuals who remain missing after a helicopter crashed in the waters off the Na Pali Coast on Kaua’i.”
After hours of searching, regional authorities suspended rescue operations for the safety of rescuers. They will resume Friday morning, while the U.S. Coast Guard will search for the missing persons throughout the night.
Acting Governor Sylvia Luke also expressed her gratitude, saying, “As search and recovery operations continue, the state stands fully prepared to work with Kaua‘i County and our federal partners.
‘We thank all aid workers and partners for their help during this difficult time.’
Three people were aboard a Robinson R44 helicopter that crashed off the Na Pali coast around 2 p.m. yesterday. (Stock photo)
According to Hawaii News NowThe helicopter belonged to Ali’i Air Tours and Charters, an airline headquartered in Lihue.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims of the crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating the incident. Officials are expected to provide more information by 11 a.m. Friday.