Helicopter crash couple pictured after flying lesson ended up ‘spiralling’

Police confirmed that three people in a helicopter died after a tragic crash, with one couple on a private flying lesson for the day, given as a birthday present

The couple who were killed during a helicopter crash have been pictured. Yesterday it was announced that three people died and a fourth was fighting for their life in hospital following a helicopter crash, confirmed by the police.

A chopper “spiralled” to the ground on Monday (August 25) near the A3020 Shanklin Road, on the Isle of Wight. The incident took place during a flying lesson at around 9.30am, with four people on board including the pilot. It is understood that the aircraft took off at the nearby Sandown Airport, and was only in the air for seven minutes when tragedy struck.

Now, a GoFundMe has been set up for a mum and her partner who tragically lost their lives. They have been identified as Justyna Czoska, 49, and Wojtek Kowalkowski, 52, and photos have been shared by their family.

The couple, who lived in Banbury, Oxfordshire, had been on a day trip for the bank holiday. Justyna, who worked with horses, treated her lorry driver partner Wojtek to the lesson as a birthday present.

Her daughter, Julia, wrote a devastating message online. It read: “I have no words the world took my mum too soon, she was the best mum you could ask for, loved by everyone. I never thought I’d be writing something like this.

“Please if anyone could help bring them back to Poland so they can be with there families it would mean the world to me rest in peace mum and Wojtek please share.”

A family tribute on GoFundMe reads: “On August 25th, my partners beloved mum and her partner tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.

“This sudden and devastating event has left all us heartbroken and struggling to cope with the loss. We are now trying to bring them both back to Poland so they can be laid to rest with their families, in the place they called home.

“The cost of repatriation, funeral arrangements, and travel is more than we can manage alone, and we are asking for support during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter how small, will help us give them the farewell they deserve. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, support, and for keeping our family in your thoughts.”

Northumbria Helicopters confirmed one of its aircraft, a G-OCLV model, was involved in the crash after taking off from Sandown Airport yesterday. The company said they have given their full cooperation to the authorities.

Police confirmed that three people on the helicopter died. Currently only the couple have been named.

A police statement read: “We can confirm that three people have died following a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight this morning. Four people in total were on board, with one person currently in hospital in a serious condition.

“At this time we are unable to provide further information about the people involved, as efforts continue to contact and support their families. We will not be commenting on the circumstances of the incident but continue to work alongside the Air Accident Investigation Branch.”

Witness, Leigh Goldsmith, told the Isle of Wight County Press she was driving towards Shanklin when she saw the helicopter “spiralling” before it went out of sight and came down in a hedge.

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