Helicopter Crash in Douro River: Pilot Claims Mechanical Failure

A helicopter carrying five GNR soldiers crashed in the Douro River, killing all but the pilot. The pilot’s lawyer, Albano Cunha, stated that his client believes a mechanical failure caused the crash, contradicting an initial report by the accident investigation body that suggested the pilot had to deviate from his flight path to avoid a bird. Cunha insists that the bird incident had no bearing on the crash, and that the pilot’s controls became stuck, leading to the helicopter’s descent and impact with the water. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining the possibility of mechanical failure. The pilot is currently recovering in the hospital after undergoing surgery on both ankles.