Accident Overview
On December 28, 2008, at approximately 0545 Coordinated Universal Time, a Hughes 369A helicopter, registration N104BN, impacted the ocean water and sank following a loss of control during takeoff from a fishing vessel. The accident occurred in the Pacific Ocean's Solomon Sea, about 350 miles west of Honiara, Solomon Islands. The helicopter was engaged in a local work use flight under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan was filed.
Witness Account
According to a written statement provided by the helicopter's mechanic, who witnessed the accident, the pilot failed to remove the tail rotor pedal lock before initiating takeoff. As the helicopter lifted off, it began to spin uncontrollably. The mechanic observed the pilot attempting to grab the pedal lock but was unsuccessful in removing it. The helicopter subsequently impacted the water, causing the fixed floats to separate, and the aircraft sank.
Aftermath
The pilot, a Philippine national, was not found and is presumed dead. The passenger, a Chinese national, sustained serious injuries. The helicopter, registered to Oceanside Helicopters, Inc., of Port Vila, Vanuatu, was not recovered and is presumed destroyed. No additional details regarding the accident were provided in the source document.