Three people have died and another is in hospital with serious injuries after a helicopter came down during a flying lesson on the Isle of Wight on Monday morning.
Emergency services were called shortly after 9:20am when the aircraft crashed in a field near the A3020 Shanklin Road, not far from Sandown Airport. The helicopter, a Robinson R44 II registered to Northumbria Helicopters, had taken off just minutes earlier for a training flight.
Emergency Response
Paramedics, firefighters, and police rushed to the scene, with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance deploying an aircraft within four minutes of the first call. A critical care team, including a doctor and a specialist paramedic, treated the injured at the crash site before one person was airlifted to University Hospital Southampton.
A police spokesperson confirmed:
“We can sadly confirm that three people have died following a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight this morning. One person remains in hospital in a serious condition. Our officers are in the process of contacting and supporting their families.”
Road closures were put in place around the area while rescue teams worked, and residents were urged to stay away to allow emergency crews to operate safely.
Witness Account
Leigh Goldsmith, who was driving towards Shanklin at the time, described seeing the helicopter “spiralling” before it came down in a hedge. She told local media she was the first on the scene and could see four people inside the aircraft, with airbags deployed.
Investigation Launched
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has sent a team of inspectors to the site to establish what caused the crash. Northumbria Helicopters, based at Newcastle International Airport, said it was giving its “full cooperation” to investigators.
In a statement, the company confirmed:
“The flight, which departed from Sandown Airport at approximately 9am, was carrying four people, including the pilot, and was undertaking a flying lesson.”
Local Reaction
Joe Robertson, Conservative MP for Isle of Wight East, called the incident “heartbreaking.” Speaking to Times Radio, he said:
“What should have been an enjoyable morning has ended in tragedy. My thoughts are with the families and everyone affected.”
The community has been left shocked by the accident, with many residents expressing their condolences for the victims and their families.
Monday’s crash has brought grief to three families and left one person fighting for their life. With the investigation now underway, authorities hope to uncover what led to the tragedy. Until then, the Isle of Wight community is left mourning a devastating loss.
