The family of the pilot at the controls of the helicopter that crashed on the outskirts of Shanklin yesterday (Monday) have said they are ‘absolutely broken’, as he is named as 54-year-old Simon Hewitt.
It was just before 09:30 on Bank Holiday Monday that the Robinson helicopter crashed to the ground shortly after taking off from Sandown Airport.
As on scene investigations begin to conclude, with the helicopter recovered for further examination, further details have now been released by Police.
It has been confirmed that the pilot was 54-year-old Simon Hewitt, from Barton-Upon-Humber.
Earlier today it was revealed that the 2 passengers killed in the tragic incident were Justyna Czoska, aged 52, and Wojciech Kowalkowski, aged 49, who were both from Banbury.
Simon’s partner and family have tonight said:
“Simon was the most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father. He bought so much joy and light into our lives. we are absolutely broken”
Justyna Czoska’s daughters and family said:
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our mum, she was beautiful, funny, talkative, optimistic and kind – always wanting to make those around her happy. She was our best friend, we miss the sound of her voice, we will miss her forever. The memories with her will last a lifetime”.
Wojciech Kowalkowski’s family said he was:
“the father of two loving children, and will be deeply missed”. Justyna’s daughter added: “He always made me happy and always made my mum happy and always made what was a family. He helped and was a heart-filled person”.
It has been confirmed that the fourth person in the helicopter, who remains in hospital in a stable condition, is a man aged in his 30s.
My sincere thanks to everyone involved with the response to this emergency a very hard time for you all