This archive report was first published on 27 August 2019.
A German businessman died in a helicopter crash in Majorca, Spain, on August 27, 2019, while celebrating his 43rd birthday.
The crash occurred when the helicopter, piloted by Italian man Cédric Leoni, collided with a light aircraft near the luxury Hotel La Reserva Rotana Manacor.
Seven people were killed in the crash, including two who were believed to have been traveling in the light aircraft.
According to eyewitnesses, the dead man and his family were holidaying with another family and staying near the hotel.
They were known at the hotel from previous times they'd stayed.
It was the dead man's 43rd birthday, and the two families had arranged for two helicopters to pick them up, but the other family ended up going by road due to a last-minute decision.
The exact nature of the crash is not yet clear, with some local reports suggesting it was a microlight rather than a helicopter that collided with the light aircraft.
The smash is thought to have occurred less than 1,000 feet above the ground.
When the aircraft hit the ground, it triggered a blaze that the fire service tackled.
Inca is situated between Palma and Pollensa and is the third biggest town on the island.
While it is largely residential, it attracts tourists due to its markets.
