jfid – Cairns, Australia – A helicopter crashed into the roof of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Cairns on the morning of August 12, 2024, resulting in the death of the pilot, who was the only person on board.
The incident caused a fire, prompting the evacuation of around 400 hotel guests. Two hotel guests, a man in his 80s and a woman in her 70s, were taken to the hospital in stable condition.
Chronology of the Incident
The crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. local time when the helicopter, on an unauthorized flight, struck the hotel roof, triggering a fire and causing significant damage.
The helicopter was reportedly taken from its hangar at Cairns Airport without permission, and police are investigating how it was able to fly.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
Eyewitnesses described the crash as a “loud explosion,” with helicopter parts scattered around the hotel. Several rotor blades were found in various locations, including the hotel swimming pool.
“I think it’s just pure luck that no one else was injured, and we are so grateful that there have been no other injuries as a result of this incident,” said Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Shane Holmes.
Actions and Investigation
Emergency responders quickly closed roads around the hotel, and an exclusion zone was established to ensure public safety. An investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and Queensland Police is underway.
They are working to determine how the helicopter was flown without authorization and what transpired just before the crash.
The helicopter’s owner, Nautilus Aviation, stated that the helicopter’s use was unauthorized and pledged to cooperate with authorities in the investigation. They stated that they “will not be making further comments at this time”.
Impact on the Area
Cairns, known as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, became the focus of attention due to this incident. Authorities assured that this was an isolated case and that there is no further threat to public safety.
Further investigation is expected to provide answers regarding the motives behind this unauthorized flight and the factors contributing to this tragic accident.
