Helicopter pilot killed in Isle of Man crash

A MAN was killed today when the helicopter he was flying crashed in the Isle of Man.

Picture: John Devlin

Police said the only person aboard the privately owned Bell Jet Ranger aircraft, a 48-year-old from Lincolnshire, received fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The helicopter crashed in the Baldwin Valley, just off the Mountain Road, near the 33rd Milestone, just after 9am.

Detective Inspector Steve Maddocks, of the Isle of Man Constabulary, said: “We, together with our colleagues from the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service and air crash investigators, are trying to establish the cause of the crash.”

There were no other people, vehicles or properties involved.

The aircraft had flown two passengers to the Creg ny Baa, part of the course used for the Isle of Man TT races, shortly beforehand. The weather was reportedly windy.

Inspector Derek Flint said: “This sort of incident is difficult to deal with at any time, and having happened during the TT festival provided a number of challenges to all involved.

“Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of the pilot. He has now been taken from the scene, which will be preserved for the arrival of the inspectors from the Air Accidents Investigations Branch who should arrive later this evening.

“The scene will remain under guard, and members of the public are asked to remain clear of the location at this sensitive time. The Coroner for Inquests has been informed.”