Minnesota, Sept 6, 2025 – A tragic helicopter crash shook the Twin Cities area of Minnesota on Saturday afternoon when a Robinson R66 helicopter went down and caught fire near Airlake Airport, located southwest of Minneapolis. Authorities confirmed that all passengers onboard were killed in the incident.
The crash occurred around 2:45 pm local time, with emergency personnel rushing to the scene after receiving distress reports. According to officials, the helicopter was already engulfed in flames when first responders arrived, leaving no survivors.
Police confirmed that the crash site lies in a non-residential, non-commercial area, ensuring that there was no collateral damage on the ground. However, investigators are still trying to determine the exact number of passengers aboard at the time of the crash.
🚁 The Helicopter: Robinson R66
The helicopter involved has been identified as a Robinson R66, a lightweight, single-engine turbine aircraft developed by Robinson Helicopter Company.
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Capacity: Pilot + 4 passengers
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Range: Up to 350 miles
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Maximum altitude: 24,500 feet
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Usage: Widely used for private flights, small businesses, and flight training schools due to its speed, stability, and fuel efficiency.
The R66 features a glass cockpit and advanced avionics system, giving pilots superior navigation and visibility. Its compact design and turbine power make it popular in both civil aviation and training environments.
🔍 Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to lead the probe, focusing on possible mechanical failure, pilot error, or external factors.
For now, the tragedy has left aviation experts and local residents shaken. While Robinson R66 helicopters are considered reliable in most conditions, accidents like this highlight the risks of small aircraft flights.
A Robinson R66 helicopter crash near Minneapolis has claimed all lives onboard. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the cause of the fatal accident that has once again raised concerns over light aircraft safety in the U.S.
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