Eurocopter EC 135P2 Goes Down in the Woods Near Wilmington, NC

A Novant Health AirLink helicopter crashed in the woods near Wilmington, North Carolina at around 8:00 pm on February 24. Two of the three people on board were left severely injured and no fatalities were reported.

The helicopter, operated by Novant Health AirLink, was a 2006 Eurocopter EC 135P2 registered as N930NH. It took off from New Hanover Regional Medical Center-Ed North Heliport (45NR) after 7:00 pm on February 24 with three crew members and no patients.

At around 7:45 pm, an unknown circumstance caused the helicopter to crash-land in the woods near the New Hanover and Pender county line. Authorities from the New Hanover County Fire Rescue and New Hanover County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene and were able to safely evacuate all three occupants.

The team members were taken to a local hospital for evaluations, with two being “severely injured” according to Deputy Fire Chief Matt Davis. Their identities have not yet been released. Peter Knudson from the NTSB's media relations noted that “the helicopter was substantially damaged in the accident."

"We can confirm there was an AirLink incident this evening,” read a statement from a Novant Health spokesperson. “We are focused on the well-being of the flight crew, their families and our team members. We are still in the initial response and information gathering phase at this time, and have limited information to share. We appreciate the prompt assistance from all area first responders who are assisting us tonight."

The NTSB has taken point on the investigation and, as with all accidents, is expected to release a preliminary report within 30 days. A probable cause will be published in 6 to 12 months.

Novant Health AirLink operates a fleet of twin-engine Airbus 135 and 145 helicopters capable of flying at speeds of up to 136 knots. They have four bases in North Carolina: Albert Ellis Airport, Columbus Regional Healthcare System, Brunswick Novant Center, and Rowan Medical Center.

FMI: www.novanthealth.org