Royal Navy member dies in helicopter crash during night exercise
Merlin Mk4 crashes into Channel, one dead, two injured
A Royal Navy member has died after a helicopter crash during night-flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth. The navy expressed deep sadness, stating, “Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected at this sad time. A full investigation will take place.”
The Merlin Mk4 helicopter, with three people on board, crashed into the Channel near Dorset. HM Coastguard aided in the rescue operation. There were no other fatalities or serious injuries, and the other two crew members were taken to hospital. The family of the deceased has been informed.
Aircraft tracking showed two Merlin helicopters from Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton operating off Dorset’s coast. Both were airborne at 8.40pm, but disappeared from tracking by 8.52pm. Around 9.25pm, a search and rescue helicopter from Solent Airport arrived, followed by a military helicopter at approximately 10.15pm. Two additional helicopters participated in the search around 10.30pm, coming from Portland and Cornwall.
#BREAKING : Royal Navy service member dies after Merlin helicopter crash during night exercise in English Channel.#RoyalNavy #HelicopterCrash #MerlinHelicopter #EnglishChannel pic.twitter.com/bYCsf8DMvq
— upuknews (@upuknews1) September 5, 2024
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his deep sadness over the tragic death, offering thoughts to the family and loved ones during this painful time. He also paid tribute to the HMS Queen Elizabeth ship’s company, especially those involved in the search and rescue operation.
A military analyst highlighted the professional and tight-knit community within the Royal Navy, noting the Merlin Mk4 helicopter’s excellent safety record and the crew’s extensive training. The analyst explained that night operations over the sea are challenging, and the crew undergoes rigorous training to handle emergencies. Despite this, the accident led to a tragic loss, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent such incidents in the future.
Defence Secretary John Healey called the news “dreadful” during a visit to HMS Diamond in Portsmouth, emphasizing the collective sorrow within the armed forces community. First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, also expressed intense sadness, acknowledging the shock to the naval community and sending condolences to the family.
The Merlin Mk4 helicopter, used by the Royal Marines, is recognized as the “world’s most advanced amphibious battlefield helicopter,” capable of carrying up to 24 troops. HMS Queen Elizabeth is described as “the largest and most powerful vessel ever constructed for the Royal Navy,” with the capacity to carry up to 40 aircraft. The carrier continues to operate at sea.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Independent reports that a Royal Navy personnel died after a Merlin helicopter ditched in the English Channel during night flying exercises with HMS Queen Elizabeth.(read more)
- ABC News reports that a Royal Navy service member was killed when a helicopter ditched in the English Channel during a nighttime training exercise with HMS Queen Elizabeth, while two other crew members were rescued and taken to hospital.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to the Royal Navy helicopter?
A Merlin Mk4 helicopter ditched into the Channel during night-flying exercises, resulting in one fatality.
Were there any survivors in the Royal Navy helicopter crash?
Yes, the two other crew members survived and were taken to the hospital.
What type of helicopter was involved in the Royal Navy incident?
The incident involved a Merlin Mk4 helicopter.
Where did the Royal Navy helicopter ditch?
The helicopter ditched into the Channel near Dorset.
Will there be an investigation into the Royal Navy helicopter crash?
Yes, a full investigation will take place to determine the cause of the incident.
