What happened
On August 8, 2015, during a sightseeing event in Steinkjer, Norway, two helicopters operated by Midtnorsk Helikopterservice AS were involved in a ground incident. The first aircraft, a Robinson R44 II with registration LN-OZZ, was operating from a lawn area to provide aerial tours. Due to high demand, an Airbus Helicopters AS350 B3, registration LN-OBP, was dispatched from a nearby base in Verdal to assist.
As the LN-OBP approached the landing site, the pilot attempted to contact the crew of LN-OZZ via radio but received no response. Assuming the first helicopter had already landed and shut down its systems, the pilot of LN-OBP proceeded with a direct, low-altitude approach over the stationary aircraft. During this maneuver, the rotor wash from the incoming AS35 and B3 caused one of the main rotor blades of LN-OZZ to strike its own tail boom. The LN-OBP subsequently landed approximately 20 meters away from the damaged aircraft.
The investigation
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) examined the flight operations and the company's internal procedures. The investigation focused on the approach path of the incoming aircraft and the lack of communication between the two crews during the final phase of the landing. The investigators also reviewed the operator's manual regarding landing procedures and obstacle avoidance.
Findings
- The pilot of LN-OBP failed to perform a proper reconnaissance of the landing area as required by the company's Operations Manual.
- The direct approach over the parked helicopter was a critical error that placed the stationary aircraft in the path of intense rotor wash.
- A lack of continuous radio communication between the two aircraft during the final approach prevented the crew of LN-OZZ from warning the incoming pilot of their presence.