Two Israeli Navy Airmen Killed In Helicopter Crash Off Haifa Coast
By JPost
Posted on 01/03/22
| News Source: JPost
Two IDF pilots died after an Israel Navy helicopter crashed off the coast of the northern Israel city of Haifa on Monday night, the IDF Spokesperson's Unit announced.
The helicopter - an Atalef AS565 Panther - went down with a crew of three on board, the two pilots and one patrol officer. The officer was rescued shortly after the crash from the sea and flown to Rambam Hospital in moderate condition.
The two other crew members were discovered after a long search and were evacuated. After resuscitation efforts, their deaths were announced. Their families have been notified. IAF chief Amikam Norkin announced that he has appointed an officer to lead an investigation into the incident.
Norkin also instructed that the Atalef series be grounded for the time being and that flight drills will be suspended.
The Israel Police’s Naval unit along with the Israel Air Force’s 669 Search and Rescue unit, the Air Force and additional forces participated in the search-and-rescue operation.
"I promise that the IDF will investigate this incident and do better," tweeted Defense Minister Benny Gantz, sending his condolences to the families of the pilots.