A medical helicopter crashed into the sea off southwestern Japan on Sunday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of three passengers, according to the Japan Coast Guard.
The helicopter, which was carrying six people, was en route from Tsushima Island in the Nagasaki region to a hospital in Fukuoka city. Following a loss of communication with the aircraft, a patrol ship later located the wreckage, retrieving the six passengers along with the helicopter.
Among the deceased were an 86-year-old patient, her 68-year-old family member, and a 34-year-old doctor. The Japan Coast Guard confirmed that they were unresponsive and were later declared dead. Three other individuals were found alive, clinging to the helicopter.
Ryuji Tominaga, head of the hospital, expressed his deep sorrow, calling the incident “utterly heartbreaking.” The helicopter operator confirmed that both the pilot and mechanic on board were experienced, and that the weather conditions appeared to have been suitable for the flight.
The National Maritime Safety Committee has initiated an investigation into the crash. This incident follows a similar crash in July 2024, when another helicopter operated by the same company crashed in the Fukuoka region, resulting in the deaths of two people.
AFP
