USCG Recovers Body of Pilot of Helicopter that Chrashed into Gulf of Mexico

The U.S. Coast Guard has recovered the body of the pilot of a helicopter that crashed into the Gulf of Mexico.

The Coast Guard said in a news release that divers from the vessel Ocean Inspector found the pilot inside the aircraft’s cockpit.

Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector New Orleans received the initial report at 4:13 p.m. Monday from boaters in the area, stating that a helicopter had crashed 35 miles southwest of the Grand Isle. PHI Inc, the owner of the aircraft, reported that there was one person on board.

Coast Guard Air Station New Orleans launched an MH-65C Dolphin helicopter and crew together with a 45-foot Response Boat – Medium and crew from Coast Guard Station Grand Isle to assist the search mission.

The cause of the incident is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.

The helicopter is used to transport workers to and from oil rigs and platforms.

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Naval Today Staff , May 29, 2012