Omniflight Helicopters, Inc. released today the names of the crew members on board the American Eurocopter AS350B2 helicopter, which took off from the Charleston, S.C. airport at approximately 2308 PM, ET on Friday, September 25, 2009, and crashed shortly after takeoff 63 miles southwest of Conway, S.C.
All three people on board were fatally injured in the tragic accident including Patrick Walters, 45, pilot; Diana Conner, 42, flight nurse; and Randolph Claxton Dove, 39, flight paramedic.
The aircraft was headed to Conway, S.C. (where the aircraft is based) and was reported missing shortly after take-off from the Charleston, S.C. airport. A search was initiated shortly after the aircraft failed to report in to Omniflight’s communications center.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representatives are at the scene where company officials are also present. The company is working closely with the NTSB as they conduct a full investigation.
Omniflight is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of its crew members and wishes to express its deepest regrets and sincerest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
Contacts:
Omniflight Helicopters, Inc.
Susan J. Lewis, 972-407-4245 or
303-518-7100
susan.lewis@omniflight.com