Accident Overview
While attempting to take off from the deck of a tuna boat, a helicopter made contact with the side of the vessel. The impact caused the helicopter to fall into the ocean and sink.
Location and Coordinates
The event took place in the Pacific Ocean at latitude 10.15 degrees north and longitude 141.40 degrees west. This position is about 91 nautical miles southeast of Hilo, Hawaii.
Inspection Results
After the accident, investigators examined the helicopter and found that one of the two nose tiedown straps was still attached. These nose tiedowns were typically used only after flight hours and when rough seas were present. The four side tiedown straps, which are normally used while the helicopter is on the deck, had been released by a mechanic immediately before the takeoff attempt.
Probable Cause
The source did not specify a probable cause for the accident.