The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has just issued its final report concerning the 2011 Molokai helicopter crash that killed all five people onboard. The report concludes that pilot error was a likely cause the Hawaii sight seeing crash. The combination of the pilot failing to maintain clearance, and hence being unable to maintain control of the helicopter, along with the pilot's decision to operate into an area surrounded by rising terrain, low and possibly descending cloud bases, rain showers and high wind" contributed to the accident.
The helicopter crashed near Kilohana Elementary School, shortly after there had been a heavy downpour.
A negligence lawsuit arising from the accident was settled earlier this year.
Because of the complexities involved and the serious nature of any aviation accident, including helicopter crashes, if you or a loved one has been injured in a helicopter accident, consulting with an experienced Hawaii personal injury attorney is critical to begin an investigation into all of the factors that may have caused or contributed to any incident.
Helicopter accidents may occur for a wide variety of reasons including pilot error or failure by the helicopter company to properly maintain the helicopters in proper working order or other negligent conduct. The presence of defective helicopter parts may also be to blame, in which case it may be possible to file a product liability lawsuit against the part manufacturer.
For more information or if you or a loved one suffered an injury in a helicopter accident, please contact the dedicated Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
