Expert Reveals Concerns Over Incident

An aviation law expert at Irwin Mitchell has raised concerns over the number of helicopter crashes causing the deaths of wealthy or successful individuals.

This follows the crash on 9th March in which Mark Weir, a highly successful entrepreneur, died.  This tragedy has occurred while the inquest into the helicopter crash involving Colin McRae continues.

Mark Weir, 44, was found dead at the scene by police and mountain rescue teams on Wednesday after they were alerted by his family that he had not returned home on Tuesday night following a solo flight in his helicopter, which is reported to be a Gazelle model.

An investigation has now been launched into the death of Mr Weir, who is a popular figure in the Lake District and also the owner of Honister Slate Mine tourist attraction in Borrowdale, near Keswick.

Irwin Mitchell’s Aviation Law Team has acted for many families who have been devastated by the loss of relatives in helicopter crashes across the world, including ones related to Gazelle aircraft.

Jim Morris, a former RAF pilot and Partner in the team, said it was vital that more information is gathered into events surrounding this latest crash.

He explained: “In light of other private helicopter crashes, it is vitally important to determine why Mr Weir lost control of his helicopter. 

“If there was a fault with the aircraft then this needs to be identified quickly, so that other helicopters of this type can be checked.  If there was not a fault with the helicopter, then a number of other important issues have to be considered such as training, licensing, flying currency and type rating checks.

“From our extensive experience in representing families who have lost loved ones in aviation disasters, we see first-hand the devastating impact these can have on so many lives.”

“Important lessons need to be learned to improve flight safety and prevent similar helicopter tragedies re-occurring in the future.”