Casualties unknown

1985-06-28: Sikorsky S-76 (N5404Y) — Eugene Island

Eugene Island, US

On June 28, 1985, a Sikorsky S-76 (registration N5404Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Eugene Island. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An S76 helicopter rolled backward on an offshore platform in the Gulf of Mexico, then fell inverted into the water about 100 feet below after the pilot attempted to lift off. The copilot had exited before the accident.

Accident Overview

An S76 helicopter experienced a rollback and subsequent fall from an offshore heliport in the Gulf of Mexico. The helicopter landed on the far right side of the platform due to a Bell 206 helicopter parked on the left side.

Sequence of Events

After landing, the helicopter rolled backward on the platform, tilting to its right. The copilot exited the aircraft and observed that the right main landing gear wheel was off the platform and resting in the deck safety net. The pilot then attempted to lift the helicopter off the platform. During this attempt, the helicopter moved off the platform and fell inverted into the water, which was approximately 100 feet below. The copilot had exited the aircraft after the initial touchdown, prior to the accident.

Aircraft and Heliport Details

The helicopter involved was an S76 type. The heliport is located on an offshore platform in the Gulf of Mexico. The presence of a Bell 206 helicopter parked on the left side of the platform led to the intentional landing on the right side.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36798. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.