LOCAL HELICOPTER CRASH KILLS TWO – FOUL PLAY NOT RULED OUT AT THIS STAGE
by
Clive Freeman | Nov 25, 2022 |
News
UPDATED: 18:40 A helicopter operated by Monacair has crashed above Eze, as it approached the heliport, killing the 35 year-old French pilot, said to be very familiar with the area, and his as-yet unidentified Russian passenger.
According to early reports, the pilot and two passengers, believed to be Russian nationals, were killed. However, it was later confirmed that two bodies had been found.
The EC 130 helicopter had left Lausanne, Switzerland, shortly after midday. The point of impact was on the Plateau de la Justice near the Roman road close to the Col d’Eze, above the A8 autoroute. Fifty-three firefighters were sent to the scene which is in a spot that is hard to access.
Firefighters and police investigators close to the scene of the crash – BFMTV screengrab
The weather locally was good when the accident happened at about 14:00.
An investigation into the cause of the crash has been opened. A deputy public prosecutor from Nice also visited the scene, suggesting that foul play had not been ruled out as the reason for the crash. The helicopter’s H130 engine is regarded as very reliable.
A second passenger had booked a place on the flight, but cancelled at the last minute, Monacair said.