2 passengers remain missing off Kauai after copter crash: update

HONOLULU (KHON2) — A helicopter crash 1/4 mile off Kauaiʻs Nā Pali coast claimed the life of one person as responders continue searching the area for two more.

The crash was called in by a hiker who was on the Kalalau trail and saw it happen Thursday afternoon.

The helicopter, a Robinson R44, was operated by Aliʻi Kauai Air Tours and Charters and had one pilot and two passengers aboard when it crashed.

Fire Chief Gibson said that KFD personnel on a watercraft recovered an individual who was unresponsive, during which time they noted what appeared to be an oil slick and small pieces of debris floating in the water.

The U.S. Coast Guard also joined the search along with a Blackhawk from the Hawaii National Guard.

KPD Chief Raybuck said they could not release the identity of the individual that was found, pending notification of family. He did say that preliminary information indicates the pilot was local and the passengers were visitors from the mainland.

Officials do not believe weather was a contributing factor in the crash.

The NTSB said they will send an investigator, once the aircraft is recovered, to process the scene and examine the helicopter.

The search continues with an estimated 70 personnel from KFD, U.S. Coast Guard and the National Guard.

Lt. Governor Luke signed an emergency proclamation which will aid in crash response.

As of Saturday, two passengers remain missing. Their identities have not been released.

Search and rescue operations will be paused sundown and will continue on Sunday.

If anyone has information about the incident, they are asked to contact KPD.