Accident Summary
On November 24, 2009, at approximately 1222 UTC, a Robinson R44 helicopter registered as 4X-BDM crashed into the water near the shoreline of Netany Beach, Israel. The helicopter was operated by TAMIR Airlines Ltd under the Israel Civil Aviation Regulations. The flight was a cross-country trip en route to Tel Aviv. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Circumstances
According to preliminary information from the Ministry of Transport, State of Israel, the helicopter was flying parallel to the shoreline at about 300 meters offshore. Witnesses observed the helicopter then execute a right bank, after which it entered the water. The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots and both passengers. The helicopter sustained substantial damage.
Investigation
The accident is under the jurisdiction of and is being investigated by the State of Israel's Ministry of Transport, Aviation Incidents and Accidents Investigation (AIAI). Further information may be obtained from the AIAI at their offices in Ben Gurion International Airport, Israel.