On March 20, 2001, a Sikorsky SK-76A (registration N376AL) was involved in an aviation accident near EC 270. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the passenger's inadvertent encounter with the rotating main rotor blades. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A passenger was fatally injured after entering an offshore platform heliport unexpectedly and walking into the path of the main rotor blades of a parked helicopter with its engine running.
Accident Overview
A helicopter completed a normal landing on an offshore platform. After touchdown, the aircraft was parked with its engine and main rotor blades operating at idle. Subsequently, a passenger entered the base of the heliport unexpectedly and without escort through a stairwell located near the nose of the helicopter.
Sequence of Events
The passenger walked into the path of the main rotor blades. The individual was struck by a main rotor blade and sustained fatal injuries. The circumstances surrounding the passenger's unauthorized entry into the heliport area are described in the investigation report.
Injuries
As a result of being struck by the main rotor blade, the passenger received fatal injuries. No other injuries were reported.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Mar 2001 Sikorsky SK-76A accident near EC 270?
A passenger was fatally injured after entering an offshore platform heliport unexpectedly and walking into the path of the main rotor blades of a parked helicopter with its engine running.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Mar 2001 Sikorsky SK-76A accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Mar 2001 involved a Sikorsky SK-76A, registration N376AL, at EC 270.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the passenger's inadvertent encounter with the rotating main rotor blades.
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