What happened
On 13 December 2006, a Bolkow 105 DB, registration EI-BLD, was performing a routine maintenance and re-supply mission for Irish lighthouses. The flight originated from Rosslare heliport and was approaching the Bailey Lighthouse helipad in Howth, Co. Dublin, for landing.
During the final stages of the approach, specifically when the aircraft was approximately 15 feet above the surface, the helicopter experienced a sudden and rapid descent. Despite the pilot's attempts to apply power to arrest the descent, the aircraft struck the ground with significant force. There were no injuries to the crew or any passengers on board, though the impact resulted in damage to the skid gear crosstubes.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the meteorological conditions and the mechanical state of the aircraft following the heavy landing. Investigators reviewed weather data provided by Met Éireann, which indicated a complex low-pressure system was driving strong, moist southwesterly airflow across the region. Surface winds were recorded at 220/25-30 kt, with gusts reaching 45 kt, though local topography likely increased these speeds.
Technical inspections of EI-BLD were conducted at the operator's facility in Trevet Airfield, Co. Meath. The examination confirmed that the landing gear crosstubes had absorbed the brunt of the impact. A full hard-landing inspection was performed according to manufacturer protocols, which verified that the fuselage alignment remained intact and no other structural defects were present.