Helix Propellers confirms with deep sadness the loss of colleague Marc Schmitz in an aircraft accident on June 23, 2026. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, and all those affected.
We are deeply saddened to confirm that our colleague and friend, Marc Schmitz, lost his life in an aircraft accident on 23 June 2026.
Marc was participating as an observer during a scheduled noise-measurement flight. The aircraft was being piloted by its owner. Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 120 meters, the aircraft experienced an apparent engine failure. An attempt was made to return to the runway and conduct an emergency landing, but the aircraft lost altitude and crashed in a nearby field.
Both Marc Schmitz and the pilot sustained fatal injuries. The exact circumstances and cause of the accident remain under investigation by the responsible authorities.
Marc was a valued member of the Helix team whose knowledge, professionalism, and dedication were greatly respected by colleagues throughout the aviation community. He will be deeply missed.
Our thoughts are with Marc’s family and loved ones, as well as with the family and friends of the pilot. We respectfully ask that their privacy be respected during this difficult time.