Helicopter crash closes RB port

TERRY HUTSON A WINCHMAN on the Port of Richards Bay helicopter was killed last Saturday (September 3) when his helicopter crashed off the port entrance shortly after lifting a marine pilot from a departing ship. The accident occurred shortly after midday with a stiff breeze blowing and was followed by the immediate closure of the port to all shipping. According to eyewitnesses there was a loud bang and they saw debris flying loose in the air as the aircraft veered over and crashed into the water, where it sank within minutes. The helicopter had just returned from a full maintenance service in Gauteng. Two of the three people on board, the aircraft pilot and marine pilot, were able to free themselves and within minutes were rescued from the sea by paddle skiers. They were later taken to Bay Hospital in Richards Bay where their condition was described as stable. The winchman was apparently unable to free himself and went down with the aircraft. His body was recovered on Sunday morning by divers.