The helicopter crash in central London

17 January, 2013

A helicopter crash in Central London yesterday led to 13 people getting injured along with two dying in the tragic episode. The helicopter is said to have crashed after it struck a construction crane in one of the high-rise buildings, which is said to be around 50 stories high. Out of the two who died, one of them was the chopper's pilot.

THE 8-seater Agusta 109 helicopter was said to be on a scheduled flight from Redhill in Surrey to Elstree in Hertfordshire, reported The Australian. One has to understand that bad weather played an important role, as it has stated that the pilot had requested a diversion in order to land in nearby place. The chopper was flying low through cloud and fog, which could have decreased the visibility level leading to the crash.

The helicopter, after colliding with the crane, lost control and came crashing down to Wandsworth Road. Some parts of the crane were splattered all around the floor. As a result, it led to an explosion splitting the fuel all around the road thus increasing chances for fire. Later, the cars and the buildings also caught fire, which was inevitable.

Investigations are underway as to what actually transpired that led to the crash. Capt Pete Barnes, 50, the pilot of the helicopter was a highly skilled pilot so his flying skills can't be questioned. His flying experience totalled an impressive 12,000 flying hours.

Eyewitnesses also stated that there was a loud explosion. Some eyewitness, who worked close to the location where the crash occurred, initially thought that it was a terrorist attack. It was understandable as the scene had turned black with smoke.

As soon as the news about the crash gained momentum since yesterday, Twitter along with Facebook, social networking sites were abuzz with people talking about it.