Share and Follow
In a tragic incident on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, a tourist helicopter crashed on a secluded beach, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to two others. The accident occurred at the picturesque Kalalau Beach, nestled along the Na Pali Coast on Kauai’s north shore, a spot accessible only by hiking or boat.
The helicopter was on a sightseeing tour operated by Airborne Aviation, a company known for its thrilling “doors-off” adventures over Kauai’s stunning canyons, shoreline, and waterfalls. Onboard were one pilot and four passengers when the crash happened on Thursday afternoon, according to the Kauai Fire Department.
Authorities have confirmed that three people lost their lives in the crash. The two survivors were promptly taken to Wilcox Medical Center for medical attention. Efforts to obtain information on their condition have been made via email to the medical center.
Airborne Aviation, the operator of the downed helicopter, has been contacted for a statement regarding the incident. As the community mourns, the investigation into what caused this tragic accident continues.
An email was sent to the company seeking comment.
Helicopter tours are a popular way to explore the cliffs, beaches and waterfalls lining the Na Pali Coast.
Derek Kawakami, mayor of Kauai, thanked the coordinated efforts of the U.S. Coast Guard and local police, fire and safety agencies.
“Here on Kauai, whenever somebody puts their feet on our soil, they’re one of ours, we treat them like one of ours, they’re a part of our family, and our first responders respond with that spirit in mind,” he said in an interview with Hawaii News Now.
In July 2024, a tour helicopter crashed on Kauai, killing the pilot and two passengers. It broke up in-flight after it hit turbulence, causing the main rotor blades to strike its airframe, National Transportation Safety Board investigators found.
Copyright © 2026 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.