Eurocopter EC120B LN-ORE Accident at Lisletta, Norway

Overview and Aircraft Details On 4 April 2009, a Eurocopter EC120B helicopter, registration LN-ORE, was involved in an accident at Lisletta in Ringerike, Buskerud, Norway. The aircraft, manufactured in 2007 and powered by a Turbomeca Arrius 2F engine, was operated privately. It was equipped with extra bearing plates for landing on soft or snow-covered ground but did not have a radio altimeter installed. ## Flight Details and Weather The pilot, a 47-year-old male holding a PPL(H) with 158 total hours (78 on type), was flying from Røyse to Surnadal with three passengers. The flight was planned under visual flight rules (VFR). Due to fog and mist, the pilot delayed departure by 2.5 hours. At the time of the accident, weather conditions included variable wind of 0-3 kt, variable visibility in fog and mist, a temperature of 3°C, and QNH of 1014 hPa. ## Accident Sequence During the flight, visibility deteriorated significantly as the helicopter approached Lisletta. The pilot decided to make a precautionary landing on an open, snow-covered field. The approach involved a continuous 240° turn followed by a relatively tight 120° turn onto a short final approach. The pilot noted that the sink rate increased and the landing was earlier and more abrupt than expected. Upon touchdown, the helicopter tipped to the right and overturned. The pilot was lightly injured, while the three passengers were unharmed. ## Damage and Investigation The helicopter sustained significant damage, including a severed tail boom, bent engine cover, and broken main rotor blades. No fuel leak occurred. The Norwegian Transport Accident Investigation Authority (SHT) published its report in April 2014, noting that the decision to delay the flight and make a precautionary landing were appropriate. The report highlighted that the final approach may have been tight, with visual references becoming less effective as the helicopter neared the ground.