Robinson R44 crash near Netanya, Israel

On November 24, 2009, about 1222 universal coordinated time (UTC), a Robinson R44, 4X-BDM, crashed into the water near the shoreline at Netany Beach, Israel. TAMIR Airlines ltd was operating the helicopter under the provisions of the Israel Civil Aviation Regulations. The two pilots and two passengers were killed; the helicopter sustained substantial damage. The cross-country flight was en route to Tel Aviv, Israel. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. Preliminary information received from the Ministry of Transport, State of Israel, indicated that the helicopter was flying parallel to the shoreline, and about 300 meters offshore. Witnesses noted that the helicopter then made a right bank into the water. The accident is under the jurisdiction of, and is being investigated by, the State of Israel, Ministry of Transport, Aviation Incidents and Accidents Investigation (AIAI). Additional information can be obtained from the AIAI at: PO Box 8 Ben Gurion International Airport Israel, 70100 Telephone: 972-977-4600