Man Steals Helicopter and Crashes into Cairns Hotel

A tragic incident unfolded in Cairns, Australia, when a helicopter pilot crashed a stolen aircraft into the DoubleTree Hotel, resulting in his death and the evacuation of approximately 400 guests and staff. The pilot, identified as 23-year-old Mr. Wilson, had recently moved from New Zealand and was employed as ground crew for Nautilus Aviation, despite being a qualified commercial pilot. He was not authorized to fly helicopters in Australia, and the flight was deemed unauthorized. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise as the Robinson R44 helicopter struck the hotel roof at 1:50 AM, igniting a significant fire. Two hotel guests, an 83-year-old man and a 76-year-old woman, were hospitalized for smoke inhalation but were later discharged. Nautilus Aviation's CEO, Aaron Finn, expressed shock over the incident, noting that Mr. Wilson had just been awarded 'employee of the month' and appeared to be in good spirits. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear, with authorities investigating how Mr. Wilson accessed the helicopter. It is believed he may have used a code or climbed over a fence to enter the hangar. Nautilus Aviation confirmed that the dinner celebrating the employee of the month was a private gathering organized by friends, not a company event. Superintendent Holmes stated that it is still unknown whether the crash was deliberate or accidental, but it is considered an isolated incident. Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, securing the area amid fears of an explosion. The investigation continues as the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event.