Incident Overview
Two crewmembers—a pilot with 16,848 flight hours and a copilot with 1,371 hours, including 10 hours in the same make and model—were operating a twin-engine helicopter on a scheduled flight to an offshore oil platform approximately 60 miles from their shore base. During the approach, the helicopter inadvertently impacted the water in a near-level attitude.
Circumstances Leading to the Impact
The flight crew had made two unsuccessful attempts to pick up a passenger the previous day, unable to reach the platform due to inclement weather. On the day of the incident, Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) prevailed as the crew attempted to locate and land on the platform. While performing the pre-landing checklist, both crewmembers' attention became diverted to arming the emergency float system and activating the windshield wipers. This distraction resulted in the helicopter inadvertently flying into the water.
Post-Impact Events
Upon impact, the helicopter, equipped with emergency floats, rolled over and sank. Both crewmembers were able to egress from the helicopter and swam for approximately 2.5 hours to an abandoned platform, from which they were rescued by another helicopter. The helicopter was later located and recovered a few days after the incident.
Maintenance and Operational Factors
The flight crew reported that there were no maintenance problems or malfunctions with the helicopter prior to the inadvertent impact with the water. No other personnel were on board; the two crewmembers were the sole occupants.