A helicopter carrying sightseers crashed off the coast of Kauai, killing three and injuring two. The latest incident is part of a series of fatal crashes plaguing the industry for decades.
The helicopter, operated by Airborne Aviation, was carrying one pilot and four passengers when it crashed near Kalalau Beach on Thursday. Two of the deceased were identified as Margaret Rimmler, 65, and Patrick Haskell, 59, both from Massachusetts.
At least 16 people have died in helicopter crashes in Hawaii in the past seven years, including two crashes in 2019. The Federal Aviation Administration has implemented new safety measures for air tour operators in Hawaii, including recommendations for pilot training and qualifications.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash of the Hughes/MD 500 helicopter. Airborne Aviation has suspended tours since the incident and is cooperating with investigators.
