Hawaii Tour Helicopter Crashes In Lava Field With 6 Onboard
A helicopter tour of Hawaii turned tragic on Thursday, December 26, 2019, when a tour helicopter crashed in a remote and rugged area of a volcano on the island of Kauai. The helicopter crashed in a lava field, killing all six people onboard. The incident came as a shock to the residents of Hawaii and tourists visiting the area.
Details of the Crash
The Kauai Police Department received a call around 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 26, 2019, reporting a missing helicopter. The search and rescue operation was launched immediately. The next morning, the wreckage of the helicopter was found in the Koke'e area of the island.
The helicopter tour company identified the pilot as Paul Matero, 69, of Wailua, Kauai, and the passengers as Amy Gannon, 47, and Jocelyn Gannon, 13, both of Wisconsin; and Charles Ericksen, 76, and his wife, Gladys Ericksen, 72, of Minnesota.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation. However, the incident took place in an area known for its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has sent a team to the site to gather more information about the crash.
Helicopter Tours and Safety Regulations
Helicopter tours are a popular tourist attraction in Hawaii, offering a bird's eye view of the islands and their natural beauty. However, there have been several helicopter accidents over the years, leading to questions about the safety regulations governing these tours.
Helicopter tours fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which has strict safety regulations in place. These regulations dictate the number of hours a pilot can fly, the maintenance requirements for helicopters, and the safety equipment that must be on board. However, the regulations have been criticized for being too lax, with some calling for stricter safety standards.
The helicopter tour industry has also come under scrutiny for its safety practices. Critics argue that some tour companies prioritize profit over safety, and put inexperienced pilots and overworked maintenance crews in charge of helicopters. However, many tour companies have defended their safety record, pointing out that accidents are rare and that they take safety very seriously.
The Impact of the Crash
The crash of the helicopter has had a major impact on the residents of Hawaii and the tourists who visit the area. The incident has raised questions about the safety of helicopter tours, and has led to calls for stricter safety regulations and more oversight of the industry.
The crash has also been a tragedy for the families of the victims, who are mourning their loss. The victims were on a dream vacation in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and their deaths have shattered the lives of their loved ones.
Conclusion
The crash of the helicopter in Hawaii has been a tragic incident that has shocked the residents of Hawaii and tourists visiting the area. The incident raises important questions about the safety of helicopter tours and the regulations governing them. It is hoped that the investigation into the crash will provide answers to these questions and lead to stricter safety regulations to prevent such tragedies from happening again in the future.