Helicopter pilot dies as search continues for crew members

By David Hunter

The Captain of a Helicopter which crashed in the Atlantic this morning has died in Hospital. 

Dara Fitzpatrick was pulled from the water in a critical condition after the aircraft went down at around 1am. 

Rescue116, based in Dublin, was involved in an operation off the coast of Co.Mayo - around six miles west of Blacksod.

Coast Guard helicopters from Sligo and Shannon were involved in the search.

They were joined by lifeboats from Ballyglass and Achill, and five local fishing vessels.

It's understood the aircraft which is lost and those involved in the search are regularly used in operations in Northern Ireland. 

My brave sister Capt Dara Fitzpatrick lost her life in #Rescue116 crash. We are devastated. Please pray for recovery of 3 remaining crew.

— Niamh Fitzpatrick (@NFitzPsychology) March 14, 2017

A Coast Guard spokesman said the missing helicopter had been providing cover in the evacuation of a crewman who needed urgent medical attention, from a UK-registered fishing vessel approximately 150 miles west of Eagle Island in Co Mayo.

"Owing to the distance involved, safety and communication support, known as Top Cover, was provided by the second Coast Guard helicopter, the Dublin based R116," he said.

"The search operation is being coordinated by the Coast Guard Rescue Coordination Centre in Malin Head.

"Both helicopters refuelled at Blacksod prior to transiting to the scene."

Dublin's Transport Minister Shane Ross said: "As the search for the Dublin-based helicopter R116 is currently under way I would like to express my sincere support and sympathies for all those involved, particularly those family members who are awaiting news of their loved ones.

"This is an extremely difficult time for all concerned."