Four people have survived a helicopter crash after the aircraft plunged into the ocean off Rio de Janeiro’s famous Copacabana beach on Saturday. Amateur video captured the fire department helicopter splash-down after it suddenly lost altitude and dipped into the waves while trying to rescue a stranded swimmer.
The footage shows the helicopter being submerged by the waves as the rotors continue to spin. Beachgoers can be heard screaming as the chopper sinks amid a cloud of smoke and spray. Authorities said all four crew members walked away from the crash with only minor injuries. The swimmer was rescued by a surfer.
To see the video and for the complete story by Alys Francis on ninemsn, click here.