Helicopter Crash at Cairns Hotel Results in Fatality and Mass Evacuation

Up to 400 people were evacuated after a helicopter crashed onto the roof of the Double Tree Hotel in Cairns, causing a fire and resulting in one fatality. The incident occurred at approximately 1:50 a.m. local time when Hilton alerted emergency services to the crash.

The pilot, the sole occupant of the twin-engine helicopter, was pronounced dead at the scene. Forensic experts are working to formally identify him. Reports indicate that the helicopter's owner, Nautilus Aviation, has stated that the flight was "unauthorized" and had no official flight plan.

The company is cooperating with Queensland Police and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau in the investigation but has refrained from further comment at this time. Veronica Knight, a bystander, reported that the helicopter was traveling at a high speed before the crash.

The fire that erupted on the hotel's roof forced the evacuation of approximately 400 guests, but fortunately, there were no injuries reported among those on the ground.