UAE: Second pilot confirmed dead after helicopter crashes into sea

The second pilot involved in the AeroGulf 'Bell 212' chopper crash in Umm Al Quwain on Thursday has been confirmed dead. After intensive search operations since the crash, the company issued a statement on Sunday to confirm the death of both pilots.

"The helicopter was carrying two crew members and no passengers onboard. Sadly, we can confirm that both crew members have perished," the company said.

According to a statement by Aerogulf, the helicopter was conducting routine training operations between Al Maktoum International Airport and an offshore rig and crashed into the sea off the coast of the UAE at 8.07pm on September 7, 2023.

On Friday, the UAE's General Aviation Authority confirmed the death of the first pilot, but the search continued for the second crew member. The aviation regulator said that one of the pilots was Egyptian and the other South African.

"Specially trained personnel have been provided to offer support and assistance to the families and friends of crewmembers and we would request that members of the media respect their privacy during this difficult time.

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