Kauai Helicopter Tour Ends Dramatically
A helicopter tour over the stunning landscapes of Kauai, Hawaii, had a miraculous outcome when a helicopter operated by Jack Harter Helicopters crash-landed on Honopu Beach following a critical engine failure on February 27, 2024. Despite the harrowing experience, all lives on board the MD500E helicopter were spared.
The aircraft, carrying four passengers and its chief pilot, lost power while in mid-flight above the scenic Honopu Beach in the afternoon. The pilot skillfully executed an autorotation maneuver, utilizing the flow of air to rotate the rotor blades and safely guide the helicopter towards the ground, averting a potentially catastrophic crash into the ocean.
Statement by Kauai County
One person sustained injuries during the helicopter crash at Honopu Beach on Tuesday, Feb. 27.
Responders were alerted to the incident at approximately 1:40 p.m., dispatching personnel from Hanalei fire station and Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 to the location.
According to initial reports, a Jack Harter helicopter with one pilot and four passengers crash-landed at Honopu Beach, resulting in one passenger sustaining a back injury. The other passengers and pilot escaped unharmed and were later rescued by another Jack Harter helicopter. The injured passenger was airlifted to Princeville Airport by Rescue 3 for medical treatment with American Medical Response.
First responders completed their operation at about 3:40 p.m.
Footage captured the tense moment of the helicopter’s descent towards the ocean before the pilot managed to maneuver the aircraft towards a safe landing on the sandy beach. The video showcases the pilot’s skill and composure as the helicopter touched down, highlighting the successful outcome of the incident.
Watch the Video:
A video capturing the real-world engine failure incident of an MD500 helicopter over Kauai, Hawaii, during a tour flight has surfaced online. The footage displays the helicopter’s engine failure and the pilot’s remarkable landing on Honopu Beach amidst the crisis.
— Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) March 6, 2024
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