Ministry launches investigation into helicopter incident

Fiji's Ministry of Civil Aviation is investigating an incident where a Robinson R44 helicopter ended up in the water near the Boat Club in Wailoaloa, Nadi. Captain Norman Walding, an experienced aviation accident investigator, has been appointed to lead the inquiry.

Preliminary reports from the Nadi Air Traffic Control Tower logbook indicate the helicopter, en route from Nadi to Denarau, was seen descending toward the Boat Club vicinity. A distress call was subsequently issued, triggering emergency response procedures. The helicopter was later found in the water but remained afloat and largely intact.

The pilot, who was the only person on board, was promptly rescued by emergency services and sustained no reported injuries. The investigation, conducted in line with international aviation safety standards, aims to identify the causes and contributing factors of the incident to prevent future occurrences.

Officials stressed that the investigation's objective is not to assign blame or liability but to improve aviation safety. A final report will be released upon the investigation's completion. The incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols in aviation.

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The Ministry stresses that the investigation will not seek to apportion blame or liability.