A helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight during a flying lesson has resulted in one person being airlifted to hospital. The incident occurred on Monday morning, August 25, with emergency services alerted at 9:24am. The helicopter, operated by Northumbria Helicopters, had four individuals on board, including the pilot.

The crash took place in a field near the A3020 Shanklin Road, prompting police to close the road and advise the public to avoid the area. A major incident was declared at 9:47am to facilitate the emergency response, but this has since been stood down.

A spokesperson for the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) confirmed that they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. They stated, "The AAIB was notified of an accident involving a light helicopter on the Isle of Wight this morning. We are deploying a team to commence an investigation."

A representative from Northumbria Helicopters identified the aircraft involved as a Robinson R44 II, which had taken off from Sandown Airport around 9am. The company expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation.

A spokeswoman for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance confirmed that one patient was treated and airlifted to the major trauma centre at University Hospital Southampton. She remarked, "Our thoughts are with them, and everyone involved in today’s incident."

Witness Leigh Goldsmith recounted the moment of the crash, stating she saw the helicopter "spiralling" before it disappeared from view and landed in a hedge. She was the first to arrive at the scene and noted that there were four people on board, suggesting that the airbags had been activated.

Firefighters from Newport, Ventnor, and Shanklin were dispatched shortly before 9:30am to assist with the incident. A spokesperson for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary indicated that the condition of those involved would not be disclosed until their families had been informed.