One dead, two missing after helicopter crashes into the ocean off coast of Hawaiian island

One person has been confirmed dead and two others are missing after a helicopter crashed in the ocean off the island of Kauai on Thursday afternoon. 

Three people were on board a Robinson R44 helicopter that smashed off the Na Pali Coast about 2pm, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Officials said hikers along the Kalalau Trail witnessed the helicopter fall into the water and reported the incident to dispatchers. 

A preliminary report states that one of the passengers was found an hour after the crash and was pronounced dead. 

One person has been confirmed dead and two others as missing after a helicopter crashed in the ocean off the island of Kauai on Thursday afternoon

Expressing condolences, Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami said: 'We are incredibly sad to hear of the life tragically lost today, and the two other individuals who are still missing after a helicopter crashed into waters off Kaua‘i’s Na Pali Coast.'

After hours of search, county officials have paused rescue operations for the safety of first responders and will resume on Friday morning while the US Coast Guard will look for the missing people overnight. 

Acting Governor Sylvia Luke also expressed gratitude and said: 'As search and recovery operations continue, the State stands fully prepared to work in tandem with the County of Kaua‘i and our Federal partners. 

'We thank all responders and agency partners for their assistance during this difficult time.'

Three people were on board a Robinson R44 helicopter that crashed off the Na Pali Coast around at 2 pm yesterday. (Stock Image)

According to Hawaii News Now, the chopper belonged to Ali’i Air Tours and Charters, an air tour company which is based in Lihue. 

The identities of any of the crash victims has not been released by authorities. 

The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA are investigating the incident. Officials are expected to provide more information at 11am on Friday.