Multi-agency helicopter crash search operation continues Saturday

Published on July 13, 2024

On Saturday, multiple agencies continued their search operation involving a tour helicopter that crashed in waters about a quarter mile offshore, fronting the Hanakoa Valley along Na Pali Coast on July 11.

A temporary FAA flight restriction for the search area continues for this operation. Personnel and assets with the United States Coast Guard, the Kaua‘i Fire Department, the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency, the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency, Hawai‘i National Guard, the Ocean Safety Bureau, and the Kaua‘i Police Department are part of this incident.

The Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency continues to be partially activated during this operation.

One person was recovered on Thursday and was confirmed deceased. Two others remain missing. Their identities have not been released pending contact with next of kin.

Volunteers with Life’s Bridges, a grief counseling service, also offered support.

According to a preliminary report, Kaua‘i Police Dispatch was notified at approximately 1:20 p.m. on Thursday by hikers along the Kalalau Trail who reportedly witnessed a helicopter crash into the water. Officials identified the helicopter operated by Ali‘i Kaua‘i Air Tours and Charters.

Search and rescue operations with County assets will be paused at sundown due to the safety of the first responders, and County operations will continue on Sunday.

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