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Lihue Today
By the People, for the People
3 Killed, 2 Injured in Hawaii Helicopter Tour Crash
Helicopter crashed off Kalalau Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, on Thursday
Mar. 27, 2026 at 6:10pm
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Three people were killed and two others were evacuated after a helicopter crashed off Kalalau Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, on Thursday, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Bystanders and Kauai Fire Department crews rescued and medically evacuated the two survivors to Wilcox Medical Center in Lihue, Hawaii.
Why it matters
Helicopter tour crashes are a serious concern in Hawaii, where the industry is popular with tourists but has faced safety issues in the past. This incident raises questions about the safety regulations and oversight of the helicopter tour industry in the state.
The details
According to a preliminary report, the helicopter was carrying one pilot and four passengers when it crashed at Kalalau Beach. The helicopter is reportedly a Hughes OH-6 Cayuse operated by Aviation Airborne. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash.
- The helicopter crash occurred on Thursday, March 26, 2026 around 4 p.m.
The players
U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard responded to the helicopter crash and coordinated the rescue and medical evacuation efforts.
Kauai Fire Department
The Kauai Fire Department responded to the crash with an Air 1 helicopter crew and Ocean Safety Bureau officers aboard jet skis from Hanalei Bay.
Aviation Airborne
The helicopter involved in the crash was reportedly operated by Aviation Airborne.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The FAA will investigate the cause of the helicopter crash.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
The NTSB will also investigate the cause of the helicopter crash.
What they’re saying
“We are greatly saddened by the loss of three lives in this helicopter crash and thinking of those individuals' families and friends. We are also keeping the survivors in our thoughts as they begin their recovery. We remain grateful for close coordination with our partner agencies throughout this tragic incident.”
— Cmdr. Andrew Williams, Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator, Coast Guard Sector Honolulu
What’s next
The FAA and NTSB will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the helicopter crash, which could take several months to complete. The results of the investigation will likely lead to recommendations for improved safety regulations and oversight of the helicopter tour industry in Hawaii.
The takeaway
This tragic helicopter crash highlights the need for stricter safety standards and oversight in Hawaii's helicopter tour industry, which has faced several high-profile incidents in recent years. The investigation into the cause of this crash will be closely watched, as it could lead to significant changes to improve the safety of these popular tourist activities.
