The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has in the past hour issued a first official statement regarding the recent Kauai helicopter tour crash off famed Napali Coast plus other unrelated incidents.
The incident, involving a Robinson R44 helicopter operating as a Kauai helicopter tour, occurred on Thursday, July 11, 2024, around 2 p.m. local time. The crash resulted in one victim being located, while the search continues for the remaining two persons who were onboard, now nearly 24 hours after the crash occurred.
FAA’s Official Statement
The FAA emphasized the preliminary nature of their report and noted that further updates would be provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is leading the investigation. The FAA’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the incident and the agency’s commitment to aviation safety.
Kauai helicopter crash incident updated information.
- Date: July 11, 2024.
- Time: Approximately 2 p.m. local time.
- Location: Pacific Ocean, approx. 1/4 mile off the Hanakoa Valley, Napali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii.
- Aircraft: Robinson R44 Helicopter.
- Operator: Alii Air Tours and Charters.
- Status: One victim located, two persons still missing.
Search and rescue efforts are ongoing.
The helicopter was on a tour in windy conditions when it crashed into the Pacific Ocean. Local authorities, along with the U.S. Coast Guard and others, have been conducting search operations for nearly 24 hours in an effort to locate the missing individuals. The search area presents significant challenges due to the rugged terrain and weather conditions. The search is being conducted primarily using Coast Guard fixed wing aircraft, helicopter, and by ship.
Community impact and support.
The incident has deeply affected the local community as well as the loved ones of those involved. Helicopter tours are a popular way to experience Kauai’s natural beauty, and this crash has brought attention to the risks associated with such activities. The community is offering support and prayers for the families during this difficult time.
Safety and regulatory oversight related to Kauai helicopter crash.
The FAA and NTSB will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and will recommend measures to prevent future incidents. This investigation will look into all aspects of the helicopter’s operation, maintenance records, and pilot qualifications. The findings will be crucial in enhancing safety protocols for Hawaii helicopter tours going forward.
Ongoing updates forthcoming.
As the investigation and search efforts continue, more information will be provided by the FAA and NTSB. Authorities encourage anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash to come forward. The aviation community, Hawaii and Kauai visitors, and the general public, are all keenly awaiting further details.
Our thoughts remain with the families and friends affected by this tragic event. This has severely shaken the entire Kauai community.
Mahalo BOH for posting the FAA reply so quickly. So sad for everyone who knew those in that helicopter, and prayers for them as well as the search and rescue folks. My first helicopter tour was with BHH Kauai, and was amazing during blue skies and calm weather, wasn’t scared at all. The second time I took the same tour 4 years later, but it was rainy and windy during the part before, during and after Mt Waialeale, and I was very nervous then! Not enough to keep me from doing another one on Big Island about 4 years later though. Hopefully the other people are found to give their loved ones some peace and closure….
This is heartbreaking. Praying for the families as they await news and I pray that authorities will be able to determine the cause and to then increase regulations to help protect against future incidents, and I pray that that brings some peace of mind for the families. We did a Kauai helicopter excursion nearly 30 years ago. I was terrified the entire time. This incident just increases my resolve to never do it again.