Helicopter Tail Retrieved from Douro River: Investigation Underway After Tragic Accident

Helicopter Tail Recovery: The tail of the firefighting helicopter that crashed into the Douro River near Lamego is set to be retrieved tomorrow. According to Rui Silva Lampreia, commander of the Northern Maritime Police, divers located the tail and some electronic equipment today. Significance of the Tail: The rotor, crucial for investigating the crash that claimed the lives of five military personnel from the GNR's Emergency Protection and Rescue Unit (UEPC), is believed to be attached to the tail. The recovery operation is scheduled for 10 AM tomorrow, with underwater searches occurring between 8 AM and 12 PM for a navigation computer, also essential for the investigation by the GPIAAF (Office for Prevention and Investigation of Aircraft Accidents and Railway Accidents). Lampreia noted that today’s operations were successful, allowing divers to return to the Douro tomorrow. Safety Measures in Place: Boat traffic in the area will continue under existing restrictions: only one vessel at a time, at low speed, monitored by the Maritime Police. The helicopter, an AS350 Écureuil operated by HTA Helicopters, was returning to Armamar when it crashed, resulting in the recovery of four bodies on Friday and the last on Saturday. The GPIAAF has begun its investigation, having interviewed the pilot, who survived, and witnesses, and plans to release initial findings next Tuesday. Investigation Location: The wreckage will be taken to the GPIAAF hangar at Viseu Airport for further examination.