1 dead, 2 missing after helicopter crashes into ocean along Na Pali Coast

HANAKOA VALLEY, Hawaii (KHON2) — Kauai County has confirmed that one person is dead after a helicopter crashed into the ocean fronting Hanakoa Valley along Na Pali Coast.

The call came in after hikers on the Kalalau Trail spotted a Robinson R44 helicopter from Alii Kauai Air Tours and Charters go down around 1:20 p.m. and reported the incident to dispatch.

A preliminary report revealed that one of the passengers was recovered about an hour later and was pronounced dead.

The remaining two passengers remain missing.

“We are incredibly sad to hear of the life tragically lost today, and the two other individuals who are still missing after a helicopter crashed into waters off Kaua‘i’s Na Pali Coast,” Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami said.

County officials said search and rescue operations have been paused for the safety of first responders.

Though the search will continue at first light on Friday, the U.S. Coast Guard will continue searching Thursday evening.

“As search and recovery operations continue, the State stands fully prepared to work in tandem with the County of Kaua‘i and our Federal partners. We thank all responders and agency partners for their assistance during this difficult time,” expressed acting Governor Sylvia Luke.

A temporary flight restriction will remain in effect near the search area.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating the incident. More information is expected to be released at 11 a.m. on Friday.