[05-20-2023] San Mateo County, CA – Two Lives Lost After Tragic Plane Crash in Pacific Ocean Near Half Moon Bay

The pilot and co-pilot died after a plane crash in Half Moon Bay on Saturday afternoon, May 20, 2023.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. in the Pacific Ocean, about 40 miles west of Half Moon Bay.

The report said the Viking Air DHC-6-400 Twin Otter, a twin-engine plane, crashed into the Pacific Ocean while on its way from Santa Rosa to Honolulu. Before the crash, the pilot issued a distress call, but soon after, the aircraft vanished from radar screens.

Upon reaching the location, a Coast Guard helicopter made a distressing discovery: the plane was submerged upside down in the water. Inside the aircraft, both the pilot and co-pilot were found, but unfortunately, they had sustained fatal injuries, resulting in the loss of their lives.

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA Administration will investigate the incident.

Plane Crash Victim Lawyers in Half Moon Bay, San Mateo County

Survivors or families of those who have lost loved ones in a plane crash may be eligible for comprehensive financial compensation. It is worth noting that some losses may be covered by insurance, even if they were not previously recognized. The insurance industry acknowledges this aspect.

To ensure a successful outcome in court, seeking the assistance of a lawyer is crucial. An experienced attorney specializing in charter plane crashes can provide valuable support in gathering evidence to strengthen your compensation claim.

You can rely on our most trusted San Mateo County Plane accident lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings.

Our firm has recovered more than $500 million for California clients.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a Plane Accident?

In the aftermath of a plane crash, it is essential to prioritize the well-being of the victim’s families who have lost their loved ones. Here are essential steps to consider:

• Seek Emotional Support: The affected families must seek emotional support from friends, family, or professional counselors to cope with the grief and trauma associated with the loss.
• Contact Authorities: Notify the relevant authorities, such as local law enforcement and aviation regulatory bodies, about the incident. They will initiate an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
• Consult Legal Counsel: Engage the services of an experienced attorney specializing in aviation accidents or wrongful death cases. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue compensation on behalf of the victims’ families.
• Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the incident, such as documents, photographs, and witness testimonies. This evidence may be crucial in determining liability and securing compensation.
• Communicate with Insurance Companies: Notify the relevant insurance companies and file necessary claims. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional before engaging in any discussions or negotiations with insurance representatives.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on the progress of the investigation conducted by the relevant authorities and maintain open communication with your legal counsel to ensure you are aware of your rights and options.
• Support Network: Join or seek support from organizations or groups that provide assistance and resources to those affected by aviation accidents. These groups can provide valuable guidance and a sense of community during recovery.

Fatal Plane Crash Statistics

Plane travel is widely recognized as one of the safest modes of transportation, offering a high level of safety. When aviation accidents occur, the consequences are often severe, and—incidents—incidents involving airplanes, whether collisions or crash landings are not taken lightly. While the rate of aviation accidents has decreased in recent years, there is a concern that the growing popularity of private jet travel and helicopter flights may reverse this trend.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) in the United States monitors aviation accident statistics and conducts investigations into aviation disasters.

According to data from the NTSB, in 2007, approximately 24 million flight hours were recorded. Out of these hours, around 6.84 accidents occurred per 100,000 flight hours, and about 1.19 of every 100,000 flight hours resulted in a fatal crash. These figures reflect a decrease from the highest recorded rate of 9.08 accidents per 100,000 flight hours in 1994. These numbers tend to be higher for private flights. However, due to limited government regulation and underreporting, accurately documenting private plane crashes poses challenges. While personal plane accidents have declined since the 1980s, many incidents still occur due to user error and inadequate training, surpassing what should be deemed acceptable each year.