Accident Overview
On June 28, 2015, at approximately 1000 central daylight time, a Bell 407 helicopter, registered as N311RL, sustained substantial damage when it was blown over the side of the helideck on the South Timbalier 127 oil platform in the Gulf of Mexico during engine start. The aircraft was registered to GM Leasing Company LLC and operated by Rotorcraft Leasing Company LLC under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 135 as a passenger flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and the flight was not on a flight plan. The flight was originating at the time of the accident for an unconfirmed destination.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that he had landed on the helideck approximately one hour prior to the accident. At that time, he observed that the helideck was slick due to pressure washing activities performed as a result of a recent fire on the platform. About 20 minutes before the accident, he noticed that the weather was deteriorating to the west and northwest of the platform and held a meeting with the passengers. A decision was made to depart. He then initiated the start sequence for the helicopter and obtained a flight clearance from company flight operations. A strong gust of wind struck the platform, and the helicopter began to slide across the helideck toward the safety skirting. The nose of the helicopter began to rise, and the helicopter fell off the safety skirting into the water below. During the mishap, the pilot activated the helicopter's floats and life rafts. He exited the helicopter onto the life raft and was picked up by a nearby boat.
Weather Information
A weather report from another oil platform located about 28 nautical miles east of the accident site recorded winds from 250 degrees at 26 knots. The platform where the accident occurred did not have any weather-gathering devices installed.
Witness Corroboration
Witness reports corroborated the pilot's statement that a strong gust of wind struck the platform, resulting in the helicopter sliding off the helideck. Two witnesses reported that the helicopter's main rotors were turning but were not yet at flight idle speed when the gust of wind struck the platform.
Operator Procedures
At the time of the accident, the operator had implemented Enhanced Operational Control Level Two, an internal control used when weather conditions dictate more positive control of operations. Since the accident, the operator has amended the procedures for Enhanced Operational Control Level Two to require that pilots receive permission from Operations before unstrapping the helicopter.
Damage and Injuries
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot received serious injuries.