Three people dead after helicopter crash during flying lesson on the Isle of Wight

Three people are confirmed dead following a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.

Earlier today (25 August) a helicopter carrying four people crashed during a flying lesson near the A3020 Shanklin Road. A major incident was later confirmed by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, which has since been stood down.

Local authorities have now confirmed there are three fatalities from the crash, with a fourth person hospitalised in a critical condition.

The names of the four people onboard the helicopter have not been released publicly.

"There has been a multi-agency response to the scene, including colleagues from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, and the Air Accident Investigation Branch," A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman said.

"The road is closed due to the number of emergency services vehicles at the scene, so please avoid the area at this time."

An investigation into the crash is underway (Sky News)

According to one local witness who spoke to the Isle of Wight County Press, the helicopter could be seen 'spiralling' in the air before it crashed into a hedge.

The woman added that she was the first person on the scene and saw there were four people on board, and she believed the airbags had been activated.

A spokesman for Northumbria Helicopters has since confirmed that its aircraft G-OCLV – which is listed as a Robinson R44 II helicopter – was involved in the accident during a flying lesson.

"Northumbria Helicopters confirms aircraft G-OCLV was involved in an accident in the Shanklin area on the Isle of Wight," a spokesperson for the company said.

"The flight, which departed from Sandown Airport at approximately 9am was carrying four passengers on board including the pilot, and was undertaking a flying lesson.

The crash occurred on the A3020 Shanklin Road, close to the town of Ventor (Getty Stock Images)

"Northumbria Helicopters is giving its full co-operation to the authorities investigating this incident."

A spokeswoman for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance confirmed that one person had been airlifted to hospital.

She said: "We have treated and airlifted one patient to the major trauma centre, University Hospital Southampton. Our thoughts are with them, and everyone involved in today’s incident."

A spokesman for the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) said: "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."