3 killed, 2 injured in Hawaii helicopter tour crash

A helicopter crashed off Kalalau Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, resulting in multiple casualties.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:10pm

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A helicopter carrying one pilot and four passengers crashed off Kalalau Beach in Kauai, Hawaii, on March 26, 2026. Three people were killed in the incident, while two others were rescued and evacuated to a nearby medical center. The helicopter was operated by Aviation Airborne and was a Hughes OH-6 Cayuse model. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash.

Why it matters

Helicopter tour crashes are relatively rare but can have devastating consequences, especially in remote areas like Kauai. This incident raises questions about the safety protocols and regulations governing the helicopter tour industry in Hawaii, which is a popular destination for visitors seeking aerial views of the islands.

The details

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the helicopter crashed approximately 100 yards off Kalalau Beach. Bystanders and Kauai Fire Department crews responded to the scene and rescued two survivors, who were then medically evacuated to Wilcox Medical Center in Lihue. The three fatalities were confirmed at the scene.

  • The helicopter crash occurred around 4 p.m. on March 26, 2026.
  • Kauai Police Dispatch personnel reported the crash at around 4 p.m.

The players

U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard responded to the scene and coordinated the rescue efforts.

Kauai Fire Department

The Kauai Fire Department deployed an Air 1 helicopter crew and Ocean Safety Bureau officers to assist in the rescue operation.

Aviation Airborne

The helicopter involved in the crash was operated by Aviation Airborne, a company that provides helicopter tour services in Hawaii.

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 crash to determine the factors that led to the incident.

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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 weeks or months to complete. The findings of the investigation will likely provide more insight into the safety protocols and regulations governing the helicopter tour industry in Hawaii.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks associated with helicopter tours, even in popular tourist destinations like Hawaii. It highlights the importance of stringent safety measures, regular maintenance, and pilot training to prevent such devastating accidents in the future.