What happened
On January 11, 2012, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration SE-JPZ, operated by Jämtlands Flyg AB, crashed southeast of Mosjøen, Norway. The aircraft was engaged in a mission to herd reindeer from a lowland area to Sjåmoen. The operation was under significant time pressure due to several reindeer being killed by a train in the preceding days.
On the second day of the operation, the flight continued after dark under challenging weather conditions, characterized by snow showers and reduced visibility. The pilot was maneuvering at low altitudes to follow the herd. Witnesses on the ground, who were herding the reindeer via snowmobiles, observed the helicopter flying near the herd. Shortly after the aircraft disappeared from their view, they heard a loud impact, similar to a large tree falling. The wreckage was located approximately 50 meters from the site of the impact, where the two occupants were found deceased.
The investigation
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) examined the wreckage and the flight logs. The investigation focused on the environmental conditions, the pilot's experience, and the operational framework of the operator. Investigators reviewed the aircraft's technical state, GPS tracking data, and the pilot's certifications. The investigation also looked into the organizational relationship between the pilot and the operator, noting that the pilot worked with a high degree of independence due to his long-standing experience in reindeer herding.
Findings
- The investigation concluded that the loss of visual references in the dark was the primary cause of the accident.
- The helicopter struck the ground at a steep angle with a significant left roll.
- Weather conditions were adverse, with snow showers impacting visibility.
- The flight was conducted at altitudes below 500 feet in darkness, which was in violation of applicable Swedish regulations.
- There were no technical failures or mechanical issues identified in the Robinson R44 II that contributed to the crash.
- Factors such as high workload, potential fatigue, and the pressure to complete the mission due to recent livestock losses may have contributed to the outcome.
- The pilot's extensive experience in this specific type of work may have led to overconfidence in managing difficult situations.