Air Antilles Plane Collides with Helicopter at Saint Barthelemy Airport: No Injuries Reported
An Air Antilles plane has accidentally collided with a parked helicopter at Saint Barthelemy Airport, but fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The incident occurred on 24 August around 11:13 am, involving an Air Antilles Viking Air DHC-6-400 Twin Otter.
Footage and images captured by an online live web camera show the Twin Otter landing at the airport, with its occupants seen leaving the helicopter about four minutes later. The video footage reveals that the Twin Otter approached the runway from the direction of runway 28 at St. Barts airport. It traveled over the grass to the left of the runway and collided with the parked helicopter.
Air Antilles plane accidentally collided with a parked helicopter while landing at the Saint Barthelemy Airport. The airline company said that no injuries have resulted from the collision.#AirAntilles #wicnews #collision #SaintBarthelemy #travel #airport #accident pic.twitter.com/xUCmu27jK7
— WIC News (@WIC_News) August 28, 2023
The collision occurred when the left wing of the plane struck the main rotor blades of the helicopter, causing the aircraft to tip onto its left side. However, both aircraft sustained minimal damage in the incident.
The airline company, Air Antilles, has confirmed that eight individuals, comprising two crew members and six passengers, were involved in the accident. Thankfully, no fatalities were recorded, and although initial reports suggested injuries, it appears that no one was seriously harmed.
Air Antilles stated that the Twin Otter, bearing the registration F-OMYS, was arriving as flight 3S722 from Guadeloupe’s Pointe-a-Pitre. The carrier explained that their landing aircraft collided with the parked helicopter on the apron.
The airline has expressed its apologies to the passengers and those who suffered minor losses due to the accident. It has also initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
Firefighters promptly attended to the passengers of the Twin Otter to ensure their safety. Additionally, a psychological support cell accessible 24/7 has been established by Air Antilles for any affected individuals. The passengers have been safely transported to their residences, and a woman who reported minor injuries has received appropriate care.
Despite the unsettling occurrence, Saint Barthelemy Airport will continue its operations, ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers and aircraft.
Overall, it is fortunate that this incident resulted in no injuries or fatalities. The airline’s prompt response and support for those affected underscores their commitment to passenger well-being and highlights the importance of ongoing safety measures within the aviation industry.
