In a tragic incident in Cairns, Australia, a man lost his life after an unauthorized helicopter flight culminated in a crash on the roof of a hotel. The crash resulted in a fire that prompted the evacuation of approximately 400 individuals from the building. Fortunately, no one on the ground sustained injuries.
Authorities in Cairns have not yet confirmed the identity of the pilot, the purpose behind the flight, or how the tourist helicopter managed to take off from Cairns Airport. The couple who was staying at the hotel during the incident was hospitalized due to smoke inhalation but has since been discharged.
It remains unclear whether the individual operating the helicopter possessed a valid pilot's license or was affiliated with Nautilus Aviation, the company that owned the aircraft. Nautilus Aviation acknowledged that the flight was unauthorized but declined to provide further details.
Cairns Airport's CEO stated that an initial review indicated no breach of the airport's security protocols. The crash occurred in a bustling tourist area of Cairns, a city known for its tropical climate and popular among holidaymakers.
Witnesses described the crash as sounding like an explosion, with smoke and flames emanating from the hotel's roof. Additionally, one of the helicopter's rotor blades reportedly landed in the hotel's pool. The Doubletree Hilton, where the incident took place, remains cordoned off as authorities assess its structural integrity.
