A couple killed when a helicopter crashed on the Isle of Wight have been named by their devastated daughter.
Justyna Czoska and Wojtek Kowalkowski were onboard the Northumbria Helicopters-operated aircraft when it was seen “spiralling” toward the ground near Shanklin on Monday morning.
They died alongside a third passenger, said Ms Czoska’s daughter, Julia Buzar.
A fourth person remains in hospital in a serious condition following the crash, now being investigated by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
The couple are reportedly from Bloxham in Oxfordshire and had gone on the flight as part of a birthday present from Ms Buzar for her stepfather.
Following Monday’s incident, Ms Buzar’s husband, Jacob Butler, has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money to bring the couple’s bodies back to their native Poland.
Sharing the fundraiser on her Facebook page, Ms Buzar wrote: “I have no words the world took my mum too soon, she was the best mum you could ask for, loved by everyone.
“I never thought I’d be writing something like this. Please if anyone could help bring them back to Poland so they can be with there families it would mean the world to me rest in peace mum and Wojtek.”
The fundraising page has so far raised more than £700 through dozens of donations.
Mr Butler wrote on the site: “My partner’s beloved mum and her partner tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.
“This sudden and devastating event has left all us heartbroken and struggling to cope with the loss. We are now trying to bring them both back to Poland so they can be laid to rest with their families, in the place they called home.
“The cost of repatriation, funeral arrangements, and travel is more than we can manage alone, and we are asking for support during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter how small, will help us give them the farewell they deserve.”
On Tuesday, the AAIB confirmed its investigation into the crash near the A3020 Shanklin Road was ongoing, after it sent a team to the crash site yesterday.
Tracking data showed the helicopter was a Robinson R44 II helicopter, with Civil Aviation Authority records stating it was owned by Adventure 001 Ltd, but operated by Northumbria Helicopters.
In a statement reported by The Times, the operator said the helicopter departed Sandown airport, also on the island, at around 9am with four people including the pilot. The flight, the company said, was a flying lesson.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said in a statement: “We can confirm that three people have died following a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.
“Four people in total were on board, with one person currently in hospital in a serious condition.”
This is a breaking story – more to follow…
