Payout for Family of Heliski Victim
6th July 2026
The Czech billionaire, Petr Kellner, died in an accident in Alaska in March 2021. Damages of $7.5m include $1.2m for pain & suffering and $6.6m for economic loss. NEW
Kellner, 56, was one of three international clients aboard an Airbus AS350-B3 helicopter operated by Soloy Helicopters during a snowboarding trip booked through Tordrillo Mountain Lodge.
Mr Kellner survived the initial crash but died before rescuers could reach him.
PlanetSKI reported on the accident at the time.
Federal investigators concluded the crash was caused by pilot error in whiteout conditions.
The trial at Anchorage Superior Court trial lasted five weeks.
Fault was allocated among the three original defendants — Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, Soloy Helicopters and Third Edge Alaska.
Jurors found that the lodge’s delayed rescue effort contributed to Kellner’s injuries and death.
Soloy Helicopters, the Wasilla-based operator of the aircraft, had already reached a settlement with the Kellner family for several million dollars and was dismissed from the suit before trial.
The Kellner Estate said the verdict brought a measure of closure.
“While this verdict does not change what happened, it does bring closure and much needed accountability,” it said in a statement.
Also killed were pilot Zachary Russell, 33, of Anchorage, guide Sean McManamy, 38, of Girdwood; guide Gregory Harms, 52, of Colorado; and client Benjamin Larochaix, 50, of the Czech Republic.
The lone survivor, Czech snowboarder David Horváth, was trapped in the wreckage for hours and last saw Kellner walking outside the helicopter after the crash.
PlanetSKI: Number 1 for digital ski news
Your digital platform for ski news, resort information, travel, equipment rental, sport, money saving deals and everything connected with snowsports – web site, social media & more.
