No fatalities

2 May 2015: BELL 407 — Heli Solutions — Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea

Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea

On 2 May 2015, a BELL 407 operated by Heli Solutions was involved in an aviation accident near Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 1778583330Data APIEditorial standards

On May 2, 2015, a Bell 407 helicopter experienced an unexpected uncommanded high rate of descent while on approach to a helipad with an external load of two diesel fuel drums. The pilot jettisoned the load and made a safe landing. Investigation by the Accident Investigation Commission of Papua New Guinea.

Incident

On May 2, 2015, a Bell Helicopters 407, powered by a Rolls-Royce M250-C47B turboshaft engine, was conducting an approach to a helipad while carrying an external load consisting of two diesel fuel drums. During the approach, the helicopter experienced an unexpected and uncommanded high rate of descent. The pilot responded by jettisoning the external load. After releasing the drums, the pilot was able to regain control and subsequently performed a safe landing.

Investigation

The accident investigation is being conducted by the Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) of Papua New Guinea. Further details regarding the cause of the uncommanded descent have not been released by the investigating body at this time.