Jonathan Guibas dies in fatal Deadhorse helicopter crash

Jonathan Guibas dies in fatal Deadhorse helicopter crash

Fatal Deadhorse helicopter crash death of Jonathan Guibas – Obituary

Jonathan Guibas, a 54-year-old helicopter pilot with Pollux Aviation, was identified by his family as one of the two individuals who died in a helicopter crash near Deadhorse, Alaska, on June 4, 2025.

The accident occurred roughly 30 miles west of Deadhorse and involved a Robinson R66 helicopter operated by the Wasilla-based company. Guibas was piloting the aircraft, which also carried a scientist conducting a shorebird survey. Both occupants lost their lives in the crash.

Weather conditions allowed the National Transportation Safety Board team to reach the crash site on Friday, according to Clint Johnson, the agency’s Alaska Chief. The wreckage is expected to be transported back to Deadhorse and examined to determine whether mechanical failure may have been a factor. A weather analysis is also underway, though details have not yet been made public.

Jonathan Guibas had only recently begun working with Pollux Aviation, having moved to Alaska about a month earlier. His mother, Arlene Guibas, shared that her son previously lived in California, Guam, and Virginia. He was not only a seasoned helicopter flight instructor but also certified in diving and motorcycle mechanics.

Close friends described Guibas as adventurous and deeply passionate about his work. Raf Collado, a friend from Virginia, recalled how Guibas taught him to fly and had long dreamed of working in Alaska.

Guibas is survived by his former wife and two sons, aged 21 and 16.