Incident Overview
A helicopter accident occurred during a landing at an offshore oil rig. The pilot in command allowed the helicopter to drift, resulting in the right main gear coming to rest on the safety apron rather than the designated landing area.
Sequence of Events
The pilot in command attempted two repositioning maneuvers to correct the helicopter's position, but these were unsuccessful. He then decided to take off and land again. During the takeoff from a hover, the pilot applied increased collective pitch. The helicopter responded by turning right around its vertical axis.
The co-pilot interpreted this right turn as a loss of directional control. Without coordinating with or announcing to the pilot in command, the co-pilot reduced both engine speed levers to ground idle, effectively bringing both engines off line.
The main rotor blades subsequently struck the platform structure. The helicopter then descended uncontrolled into the water.
Findings
No mechanical malfunctions were discovered during the post-accident examination. The actions taken by the co-pilot were performed without prior coordination or announcement to the pilot in command.