12 Aug 2024 | 12:31 AM UTC
Australia: Authorities continue investigative operations after helicopter crash in Cairns leaves pilot killed early Aug. 12 /update 1
Officials continue investigation after helicopter crash at DoubleTree in Cairns, Australia, leaves pilot killed, two injured early Aug. 12.
Authorities are continuing investigations at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Esplanade in Cairns following a helicopter crash on the rooftop early Aug. 12. Reports indicate that the helicopter's propellers detached and landed in the hotel's pool. The incident caused a fire and resulted in the evacuation of hundreds of nearby residents. The crash killed the pilot and injured two people in the hotel.
Officials have established an exclusion zone in the surrounding area, including Esplanade, Minnie Street, Abbott Street, and Florence Street. The cause of the incident remains unclear; officials are likely to provide updates over the coming hours.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions will likely affect the vicinity of the incident site over the short term as the emergency response continues. Associated localized business and lingering disruptions are possible.
Avoid the incident site until authorities give the all-clear and vacate the scene. Allow additional time if traveling in the affected area. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent any disruptions. Strictly heed all instructions issued by local officials.
