04 September 2013
Chief Minister Senator Ian Gorst said “On behalf of the Council of Ministers and the States Assembly, I would like to extend our condolences to the families of the two people who died today (Wednesday 4 September) when a light aircraft crashed off the west coast of Jersey. We were deeply saddened to learn of the accident.
“I would like to thank all those who took part in the search and rescue operation, which was coordinated by Jersey Coastguard and involved all the emergency services.
“The search effort included C.I. Airsearch, the St Helier, St Catherine and Fire Service lifeboats, the harbour pilot boat, a French and a British search and rescue helicopter and HMS Northumberland, a type 23 frigate which was training in the area. The Manche Iles Express passenger ferry, Marin Marie, was diverted to take part and a number of private boats also helped.
“Jersey Airport controlled the flow of aircraft movements during the search and the ambulance service and hospital were on major incident standby.
“It was a difficult search operation in reduced visibility and our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident."
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