What happened
On December 15, 2018, at 18:40 UTC, an Agusta A109S helicopter, registration I-EITC, was performing a HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Service) mission near Serra de Santa Justa, Valongo, Portugal. The aircraft, operated by Babcock Mission Critical Services Portugal for INEM, was engaged in a night flight when it collided with a radio broadcasting tower. The impact resulted in a controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) accident.
The investigation
The GPIAAF investigation examined the operational environment, the crew's decision-making processes, and the technical state of the aircraft. The inquiry focused on the navigation management during the mission, the meteorological conditions at the time of the accident, and the visibility of air navigation obstacles. The investigators also reviewed the crew's duty and rest periods, as well as the oversight provided by the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC).
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with a radio broadcasting tower during night operations.
- The investigation identified issues regarding the adequacy of night-time beaconing and lighting for air navigation obstacles outside of airport environments.
- There were concerns regarding the oversight of crew duty, rest, and readiness limits by the national authority.
- The investigation noted a need for improved real-time weather monitoring and equipment installation at frequent operational bases to ensure safe service levels.