A helicopter carrying four people on Monday morning, crash-landed on the outskirts of Shanklin on the Isle of Wight.
Gatekeepers News reports that Northumbria Helicopters in a statement, confirmed that the aircraft involved, identified as G-OCLV, had taken off from Sandown Airport at around 09:00.
According to the company, the helicopter was on a flying lesson and had four people on board, including the pilot.
It said, “ The flight, which departed from Sandown Airport at approximately 09:00 was carrying four passengers on board including the pilot, and was undertaking a flying lesson.”
The company added that it is giving its full cooperation to the authorities investigating the incident and will release further details in due course.
Of the four occupants, one individual was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital for treatment. The conditions of the remaining passengers have not yet been disclosed.
In a statement released, Shanklin Town Council expressed shock at the incident, describing it as a tragic accident that could have been far worse.
The council praised the pilot for managing to land the helicopter in a field, away from residential areas, thereby preventing a greater disaster.
It also noted that the crash occurred during a busy bank holiday weekend, when the island is hosting the scooter rally and several other events operating from Sandown Airport.
The council highlighted that pleasure flights offering visitors aerial views of the island’s coastline are a regular attraction from the airport.
The statement reads, “This is a tragic accident and the pilot deserves huge credit for bringing down the helicopter in a field away from any built up areas.”
“Our thoughts and prays are with the individuals involved as well as their immediate families, not forgetting the quick action and professionalism of our emergency services.”
Emergency responders remain at the crash site, and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident.
