THIS is the shocking moment a helicopter loses control and smashes into a field – tragically killing the pilot onboard.
Rafael Grossi Teixeira, 43, a seasoned helicopter pilot and trainer, was transporting wedding guests to a ceremony in Brazil’s Minas Gerais state.
On approach to the wedding venue, shocking footage shows the Robinson R66 chopper spiral erratically before hitting the ground on the afternoon of November 7.
Rafael and the five members of the wedding party were rescued alive from the helicopter wreckage and rushed to hospital.
Though Rafael was found initially conscious, his health deteriorated overnight and he succumbed to his injuries, according to Santa Casa Hospital.
One wedding guest is now being treated in intensive care, while four others remain hospitalised.
According to the Fire Department, the helicopter had been flying over the field as Rafael searched for a landing site.
The chopper had been just 65ft above the field when it started to lose control and subsequently plummets to the ground below.
Police are now carrying out forensic examinations of the crash site.
Brazil’s Air Force have also sent investigators to collect evidence and assess the circumstances that lead to the helicopter loosing control.
A father and experienced flyer, Rafael had been operating choppers for 20 years.
He previously worked for Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) which organised civil aviation schools.
He was involved in training centres, and oversaw examinations for those pursuing aviation.
The veteran pilot was also a founding partner of AR Aviation School, which started operating in March 2024.
The school teaches 13 practical training courses for both helicopters and aeroplanes.
In a statement, the school confirmed Rafael’s death and has expressed their condolences.
All training’s at AR Aviation School have been suspended indefinitely.
A funeral for Rafael was held on November 10. He leaves behind a son.
