A veteran helicopter pilot has died after the aircraft he was flying with five wedding guests onboard spiralled out of control and crashed into a field in Brazil.
Rafael Grossi Teixeira, 43, was transporting members of a wedding party to a ceremony in Minas Gerais state when the Robinson R66 helicopter went down on the afternoon of November 7.
Footage of the incident captured the aircraft approaching the wedding venue before suddenly spinning erratically and plunging towards the ground.
The helicopter was reportedly flying at a height of just 65 feet above a field as Rafael searched for a suitable landing spot when it began losing control.
Emergency responders managed to pull all six occupants, including Rafael, from the wreckage alive before rushing them to hospital.
Although the experienced pilot was initially conscious, his condition deteriorated overnight. Santa Casa Hospital later confirmed that he had died from his injuries.
One of the wedding guests remains in intensive care, while the other four passengers are still receiving hospital treatment.
The Fire Department said the helicopter had been flying over the field while its pilot was looking for a place to land.
Police have launched an investigation, with forensic examinations being carried out at the crash site to establish what caused the aircraft to lose control.
Brazil’s Air Force has also deployed investigators to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Rafael was an experienced pilot and instructor who had been operating helicopters for around 20 years. He was also a father.
He previously worked with Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), which organised civil aviation schools, where he was involved in training centres and examinations for aspiring aviation professionals.
He was also a founding partner of AR Aviation School, which began operating in March 2024 and offers 13 practical training courses covering helicopters and aeroplanes.
The school confirmed his death and expressed its condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
All training activities at AR Aviation School have been suspended indefinitely.
Rafael’s funeral was held on November 10. He leaves behind a son.
