In a tragic incident on Kauai’s secluded shores, a helicopter crash has claimed the lives of three individuals, leaving two others injured. The ill-fated flight took place on the remote Kalalau Beach, nestled along the island’s famed Na Pali Coast, according to reports from the Kauai Fire Department.

The helicopter, piloted by an individual accompanied by four passengers, descended on Thursday afternoon into this picturesque yet isolated region, accessible only by foot or boat. The crash resulted in the immediate death of three people, while the remaining two were swiftly transported to Wilcox Medical Center for urgent medical attention. Attempts to ascertain the current health status of the injured passengers have been made via email to the medical facility.

Airborne Aviation, known for offering sightseeing excursions that showcase the breathtaking canyons, coastline, and waterfalls of Kauai, operated the crashed helicopter. The company, which notably promotes a “doors-off thrill seekers adventure tour” accommodating up to four passengers, has been contacted for their response to the accident.

Helicopter tours offer a unique vantage point to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Na Pali Coast, attracting many tourists seeking a bird’s-eye view of its natural beauty. This incident casts a somber shadow over the popular activity, highlighting the inherent risks associated with such aerial adventures.

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.