Eurocopter AS350B3 Ecureuil crash near Samodães, Portugal

An HTA Helicopters AS350B3 returning to its Armamar base after working a rural fire at Gestaçô struck the surface of the Douro River near Samodães at about 100 knots while descending in a left turn. The five passengers, among them GNR personnel, were killed. The pilot suffered minor injuries and was rescued by a boat. He reported avoiding a bird during the descent. The GPIAAF investigation continues.