Accident Summary
On February 28, 2009, at 11:00 AM Central Standard Time, a Bell Helicopter model 212, Mexican registration XC-DES, crashed during takeoff from a soccer field near Jesus Maria, Aguascalientes, Mexico. The helicopter was operated by the Comision Nacional de Agua and was conducting a VIP flight. The aircraft carried a pilot, a mechanic, and eight passengers; all 11 occupants sustained minor injuries.
Flight Details
According to reports, the takeoff attempt was made under a downwind condition, with power lines and trees surrounding the soccer field. The helicopter had traveled approximately 120 feet from the takeoff point when its main rotor blades struck a concrete power pole. After the collision, the helicopter came to rest upright. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.
Investigation
A technical adviser from Bell Helicopter traveled to Aguascalientes, Mexico, to assist in the investigation conducted by the Direccion General de Aeronautica Civil (DGAC) of Mexico. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Mexico. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by the Government of Mexico. Further information may be obtained from the Secretaria de Comunicaciones y Transportes (SCT) in Mexico City.