Three people lost their lives and one person was seriously injured after a helicopter crashed in a field near Shanklin on the Isle of Wight. The aircraft, which was being used for a flying lesson, came down beside the A3020 at approximately 09:20 BST. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed that four individuals were on board at the time of the incident.
Emergency services responded swiftly, and one person was airlifted to University Hospital Southampton’s major trauma centre, where they remain in serious condition. Police declared a major incident shortly after the crash to coordinate the emergency response, which has since been stood down.
The helicopter, operated by Northumbria Helicopters, had departed from Sandown Airport around 20 minutes before the crash. According to eyewitness Leigh Goldsmith, the aircraft appeared to spiral before disappearing from view and landing in a hedge. She was among the first to arrive at the scene and reported that all four occupants were inside the wreckage, with airbags believed to have deployed.
Authorities are working to contact and support the families affected. A police spokesperson stated that further details about those involved could not be released at this time and that the investigation is ongoing in collaboration with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.
Northumbria Helicopters confirmed that the aircraft involved was a Robinson R44 II, registered as G-OCLV, and was conducting a flying lesson with four people on board, including the pilot. Shanklin Town Council expressed shock over the incident and acknowledged the pilot’s efforts to avoid densely populated areas during the emergency.
The crash occurred during a busy bank holiday weekend on the island, which hosted several events including the Isle of Wight Scooter Rally. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance service confirmed that one patient had been treated and airlifted to hospital, extending their thoughts to all those affected.
Investigators from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch have been deployed to examine the crash site. The area, described as rural with narrow winding roads and tall hedges, has been cordoned off, including nearby bridleways and footpaths.
Source BBC
