Three people died after the helicopter came down in a field on Monday morning during a flying lesson
A Barton pilot who bought “joy and light into lives” has been named as the third victim of a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.
The family of Simon Hewitt, 54, said they were “absolutely broken” after his death in the incident on Monday morning (August 25) during a flying lesson.
Mr Hewitt died alongside Justyna Czoska, 52, and partner Wojciech Kowalkowski, 49, after the Robinson R44 II helicopter came down in a field.
The fourth person in the helicopter, a man in his 30s, was airlifted to hospital in Southampton where he remains in a stable condition, according to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
The partner and family of Mr Hewitt said: “Simon was the most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father. He brought so much joy and light into our lives. We are absolutely broken.”
Adventure 001, owner of the helicopter, said Mr Hewitt would be “truly missed”, describing him as an “immensely respected member of our team” and “truly wonderful family man”.
A spokesperson said: “At this very sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of all those involved in a crash yesterday morning on the Isle of Wight.
“Two passengers have tragically lost their lives on board the helicopter, and we hope for the best recovery possible for the third passenger being treated at University Hospital Southampton.
“Tragically also lost on board was our devoted pilot, Captain Simon Hewitt, who was not only an immensely respected member of our team, but also a truly wonderful family man, a much-loved friend and a highly regarded colleague. Simon will be truly missed.
“We would also like to thank the emergency services for their quick response as well as our team on the ground and members of the public who were able to offer their assistance.
“Our heartfelt condolences remain with everyone affected by this tragedy and we continue to co-operate with the ongoing AAIB investigation.”
A spokesman for Hampshire police said: “We are continuing to work alongside the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) and the coroner to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident.
“Activity at the crash site is expected to be completed by the end of Wednesday August 27.”