Emergency autorotation landing of Aerospatiale AS350 in Ontario

No fatalities • Big Trout Lake, Ontario, Canada

An Aerospatiale AS350 B-2 experienced an in-flight engine shutdown while transporting a drilling crew near Big Trout Lake.

What happened

On May 27, 2011, an Aerospatiale AS 350 B-2 helicopter, operating as C-GSSS for Expedition Helicopters, was en route from a base camp located approximately 80 miles east of Big Trout Lake, Ontario, to a drilling site. During the cruise phase of the flight, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded left yaw following an in-flight engine shutdown.

In response to the engine failure, the pilot performed an emergency autorotation. The helicopter landed hard in shallow water near the shore of a lake. While the aircraft sustained substantial damage, there were no injuries to the occupants, all of whom exited the aircraft and reached the shore safely.

Probable cause

Not determined

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 May 2011 AEROSPATIALE AS350 B2 accident near Big Trout Lake, Ontario, Canada?

An Aerospatiale AS350 B-2 experienced an in-flight engine shutdown while transporting a drilling crew near Big Trout Lake.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 May 2011 AEROSPATIALE AS350 B2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 May 2011 involved a AEROSPATIALE AS350 B2, operated by Expedition Helicopters, at Big Trout Lake, Ontario, Canada.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Not determined

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