Princess Catherine has issued a heartfelt statement (Image: Ian Vogler via Samir Hussein/WireImage)
The Princess of Wales has said she is “saddened” to hear of the fatal helicopter collision in Devon earlier today. In a message posted to social media, she said: “I was so saddened to hear of the tragic loss of three service personnel from the Fleet Air Arm following a helicopter training exercise last night. William and I hold their families and friends in our hearts at this very difficult time. C”
Three members of the Royal Navy died in a helicopter crash in Devon. The helicopter crashed in a field at Sourton Down, near Okehampton, just before 4am on Wednesday. Members were taking part in a training exercise on the Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter when it hit the ground.
The Princess issued a message in her role as Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm. The Prince of Wales will be contacting the families of those who lost their lives directly in the coming days, it is understood.
Princess Catherine was appointed as commodore-in-chief of the Fleet Air Arm, a position previously held by the former Prince Andrew, in 2023. She was appointed by King Charles.
The role sees Catherine attend as the guest of honour at major ceremonial occasions and events, as well as being kept updated of developments and actions of the world of naval aviation.
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In her role, the princess has also visited airfields before to hear about the work of the Fleet Air Arm.
On one visit in 2023, Catherine was shown a Merlin Mk4 helicopter, which is employed by the Royal Marines globally to provide disaster relief.
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Keir Starmer addresses Royal Navy helicopter crash in Devon
A Royal Navy spokesperson said this morning that it was “with deep sadness that we can confirm three members of the Royal Navy have died during a helicopter training exercise”.
They added: “The families of the service personnel have been informed and have requested a period of grace before further details are released. Our thoughts and sympathies are with their families and friends at this sad time.”
