KAUAI, HI – One person has tragically lost their life, and two others remain unaccounted for after a helicopter crash off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii. The incident occurred Thursday afternoon, about a quarter mile from shore, sparking a large-scale search and rescue operation.
According to state officials, the crash involved a Robinson R44 helicopter operated by Ali’i Kaua’i Air Tours and Charters. It was reported at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time near Hanakoa Valley along the Na Pali Coast. Eyewitnesses hiking on the Kalalau Trail saw the helicopter descend into the ocean and promptly alerted authorities.
Rescue teams, including the Coast Guard, Kaua’i Fire Department, Kaua’i Emergency Management Agency, and other local responders, promptly initiated a search effort. Despite their rapid response, only one body has been recovered so far, with two passengers still missing.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be leading the investigation to determine the specifics of the incident and to prevent future occurrences.
This fatal helicopter crash has cast a shadow over the community in Kauai, reminding both locals and visitors of the potential dangers associated with air travel in such rugged and remote areas. The ongoing search efforts continue as teams work tirelessly to locate the missing individuals, hoping for a positive outcome.