What happened
On the night of July 1, 1999, an Air Corps Eurocopter AS365Fi Dauphin, registration DH248, was engaged in a search and rescue mission near the coast of County Waterford. The mission began after the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Dublin reported a 15-foot vessel lost in poor visibility off Dungarvan. The helicopter crew successfully located the Helvick Inshore Lifeboat, which was attempting to navigate back to pier with the casualty vessel in tow. Because the lifeboat's GPS was malfunctioning, the helicopter provided vital navigational assistance.
As the mission progressed, weather conditions at Waterford Regional Airport began to deteriorate significantly. The pilot attempted two Instrument Landing System (ILS) approaches to Runway 21 but was forced to perform a go-around both times. The crew subsequently notified air traffic control that they would attempt a coastal approach. During a likely go-around from this secondary approach, the aircraft struck 14-meter-lehigh sand dunes adjacent to Tramore Strand. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and a severe post-impact fire. There were 4 fatalities among the crew, with no survivors.
The investigation
The investigation, led by an appointed Inspector of Accidents, examined the flight history, meteorological data, and the sequence of the rescue mission. Investigators analyzed the communications between the helicopter crew, the lifeboat, and the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre. The inquiry also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance logs, the crew's experience, and the specific flight techniques used during the deteriorating weather conditions. The investigation looked into the transition from a standard ILS approach to the decision to attempt a coastal approach under low visibility.
Findings
- The aircraft was performing a military search and rescue operation in worsening weather.
- The crew had successfully assisted a lifeboat in navigating toward Helvick Pier.
- The pilot attempted to land at Waterford Airport using standard instrument approaches but was unable to complete them due to the weather.
- The aircraft impacted sand dunes during a probable go-around from a coastal approach.