What happened
On August 13, 2022, at approximately 13:00 local time, an Airbus AS350B3 helicopter was involved in an aviation accident in Chile. The aircraft was operating in the Valparaíso Region, specifically located five miles south of the Portillo Ski Center. At the time of the event, the helicopter was engaged in non-scheduled passenger transport services related to heliski activities. The aircraft was carrying three passengers, with an additional two passengers waiting at the landing site.
Following the occurrence, the pilot in command sustained minor injuries, while all three passengers remained unharmed. The helicopter suffered severe damage as a result of the impact.
The investigation
The DGAC Chile investigation is currently in the information analysis phase. Investigators are working to determine the definitive cause of the accident. As part of the technical inquiry, a specialized inspection of the engine is scheduled to be conducted in the United States to evaluate its condition and performance prior to the event.