A helicopter crashed onto the roof of a Hilton hotel in Australia early Monday morning, as reported by local media. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), citing police sources, confirmed that the pilot, who was the only person on board, lost his life in the crash.
The impact of the crash sparked a fire on the hotel’s rooftop, prompting a large-scale evacuation of the building. No injury was reported. However, two other individuals were taken to the hospital and are reported to be in stable condition, according to police.
ABC also reported that Nautilus Aviation, the company that charters the helicopter, stated the pilot was on an “unauthorized” flight at the time of the accident.
Queensland Police are currently investigating the incident, referring to it as a “fatal aviation incident in Cairns City.” Emergency services were alerted around 1:50 am after receiving reports that a twin-engine helicopter had collided with the hotel’s roof.
Police confirmed that the building was evacuated as a precaution and that no injuries were sustained by people on the ground. Forensic investigations are now underway to formally identify the pilot.
