Full Breakdown
Tragic Helicopter Crash on the Isle of Wight Claims Three Lives
8/27/2025, 1:27:44 AM
Incident Overview
On August 25, 2025, a helicopter crash during a flying lesson on the Isle of Wight resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left one person hospitalized in serious condition. The incident occurred around 9:20 AM near Shanklin, shortly after the aircraft, a Robinson R44 II registered as G-OCLV, took off from Sandown Airport. Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter "spiralling" before it crashed into a field close to the A3020 Shanklin Road.
Victims Identified
The victims have been identified as Justyna Czoska, 52, and her partner Wojtek Kowalkowski, 49, both from Bloxham, Oxfordshire. A third victim, Simon Hewitt, 54, from Barton-upon-Humber, Lincolnshire, was also killed in the crash. Czoska's daughter, Julia Buzar, expressed her heartbreak on social media, describing her mother as "the best mum you could ask for." A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with repatriation costs to Poland for Czoska and Kowalkowski, as their families seek to lay them to rest in their homeland.
Emergency Response
Emergency services were dispatched promptly, with police, fire crews, and air ambulances arriving at the scene shortly after the crash. A major incident was declared to coordinate the response, which included a critical care team from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. One survivor was airlifted to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Southampton.
Investigation Underway
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has launched a formal investigation into the crash. Initial flight data indicated that the helicopter climbed to an altitude of approximately 800 feet before encountering difficulties, leading to its descent within about 27 seconds. Northumbria Helicopters, the operator of the aircraft, confirmed their cooperation with the investigation.
Community Reaction
Local officials and community members have expressed their condolences and shock at the tragedy. Joe Robertson, the Member of Parliament for Isle of Wight East, described the incident as "heartbreaking," emphasizing the community's readiness to support the affected families. Shanklin Town Council commended the pilot for managing to bring the helicopter down in a field away from populated areas, potentially preventing further casualties.
Conclusion
This tragic event has left a profound impact on the Isle of Wight community, with many rallying to support the families of the victims. As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances surrounding this devastating accident.
