BREAKING NEWS Tragedy on the Isle of Wight: Helicopter Crash Claims 3 Lives

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Picture courtesy of BBC | Echo/Solent
 

A horrifying helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight has claimed the lives of three individuals and left one seriously injured. The helicopter, used for a flying lesson, spiralled out of control and crashed in a field near Shanklin at around 09:20 BST on Monday morning.

 

The helicopter, a Robinson R44 II operated by Northumbria Helicopters, had taken off from Sandown Airport approximately 20 minutes before the devastating incident. It was conducting a flying lesson when it came down near the A3020 with four people aboard, including the pilot. One survivor was swiftly airlifted to University Hospital Southampton with severe injuries.

 

Eyewitness Leigh Goldsmith described the chilling scene as she witnessed the helicopter "spiralling" before disappearing and crashing into a hedge. Upon arriving at the scene, she noted there were four people onboard and believed that the helicopter's airbags had deployed during the impact, reported BBC.

 

Authorities declared a major incident shortly after the crash, deploying emergency responders to the site. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary organised a coordinated response by 09:50, but they later rescinded the major incident status.

 

Northumbria Helicopters released a statement confirming the tragic loss, while Shanklin Town Council expressed its shock over the event. The council acknowledged the pilot's efforts to steer the helicopter away from populated areas, potentially averting even greater disaster.

 

The Isle of Wight was bustling with activity over the bank holiday weekend, including the popular Scooter Rally at Sandown Airport. However, the joy quickly turned to sorrow as news of the crash spread, shaking the local community.

 

Emergency teams, including the Air Accidents Investigation Branch, have been dispatched to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, although details remain sparse at this stage. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance confirmed their involvement, conveying their sympathies to everyone affected.

 

BBC reporter Anjana Gadgil, at the scene, described the area as rural, with narrow roads lined by tall hedges. Police cars blocked off access as investigations continued, affecting many local pathways and bridleways.

 

Joe Robertson, the Conservative MP for Isle of Wight East, conveyed his condolences and acknowledged the tragic impact on the community. Efforts are ongoing to support the grieving families and bring clarity to the tragic event that shook the island.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-26