Kauai helicopter crash: 3 dead, 2 injured on na pali coast

A tourist helicopter crashed on Thursday afternoon in Kauai, Hawaii, killing three people and injuring two others, according to authorities. The incident occurred at Kalalau Beach on the island’s north shore, a notoriously remote location accessible only by foot or boat.

Casualties reported in kauai helicopter accident

The helicopter, operated by Airborne Aviation, was carrying one pilot and four passengers when it crashed. The injured were transported to Wilcox Medical Center. Details regarding their condition are still being assessed.

The crash site is located on the Na Pali Coast, an area famed for its dramatic cliffs and challenging terrain. The US Coast Guard, local police, and fire departments responded to the scene.

“Here on Kauai, whenever somebody puts their feet on our soil, they’re one of ours,” said Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami in a statement. “We treat them like one of ours, they’re a part of our family, and our first responders respond with that spirit in mind.”

This isn’t the first helicopter incident on Kauai. In July 2024, another tour helicopter crashed, resulting in the death of the pilot and two passengers. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of both crashes. The July incident involved a helicopter that broke apart in flight after encountering turbulence.

Airborne Aviation, which advertises