The operators of a helicopter that crashed on the Isle of Wight, killing three people, have criticised the aircraft’s manufacturer for “speculating” that “pilot error” was to blame. Captain Simon Hewitt died alongside horseriding instructor Justyna Czoska, 52, and partner Wojciech Kowalkowski, 49, from Bloxham, Oxfordshire, when the Robinson R44 II helicopter came down in a field near the A3020 Shanklin Road on Monday morning during a flying lesson. A fourth person, a man in his 30s, was airlifted to hospital in Southampton.
David Smith, chief executive of the Robinson Helicopter Company, told the BBC that “80%” of similar crashes were caused by “pilot error”. In a statement, he said: “We at Robinson are deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the three individuals who lost their lives, and we are hopeful for a full recovery for the survivor. While we understand there are many questions about what caused this accident, we do not have enough information to speak with any certainty at this time. What is definitive is that in 80 plus per cent of situations, outcomes of these accidents are ruled as pilot error, rather than mechanical failure.”
A statement from operators Northumbria Helicopters, based at Newcastle International Airport, described Mr Hewitt as an “immensely respected, exceptionally safety conscious and highly skilled flight instructor and commercial pilot” and urged for “restraint” from “speculative statements”. It said: “Further to the statistics quoted by Robinson Helicopters this morning, pilot experience and qualifications should also be considered as this is the major factor in these circumstances. We strongly suggest you look at statistics for amateur/student pilots vs professional pilots as in this case. We are therefore very disappointed with statements such as ‘Helicopter maker says crash likely pilot error’. At this stage, the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has only just commenced their investigation. It is therefore both premature and inappropriate to speculate on the causes of this tragedy. Any suggestion of pilot error at this point is not supported by evidence and risks causing unnecessary distress to grieving families, friends, and colleagues.”
Hampshire Constabulary has said it is investigating the crash alongside the AAIB and the coroner. A spokeswoman for the AAIB said: “Our enquiries are ongoing and it is too early to speculate on what may have led to this tragic accident.” A statement released by Robinson Helicopter Company added: “We have full confidence in the authorities who are investigating this incident. They will thoroughly examine all factors, including the aircraft’s maintenance history, the operator, the pilot’s actions and the environmental conditions leading up to the crash. We believe their investigation will provide the clarity and closure needed for the families affected by this terrible event.”
