What happened
On August 15, 2015, an Airbus Helicopters EC120B, registration SE-JJM, operated by Kallaxflyg AB, crashed in the Reisadalen area of Norway. The flight originated from Alta Airport with the intention of traveling to a maintenance base near Kiruna, Sweden. During the flight, the pilot performed several 360-degree turns at low altitude and low speed, driven by an interest in observing wildlife, such as foxes, from the air.
During one of these maneuvers, the pilot attempted to turn the aircraft to catch a tailwind. Despite increasing engine torque to 117%, the helicopter failed to maintain altitude and entered a state of uncontrolled descent. The aircraft struck the ground with significant force, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe, specifically the nose, tail boom, and landing gear. The pilot sustained one injury (a back injury).
The investigation
The Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (NSIA) examined the flight data from the aircraft's GPS plotter, which revealed highly irregular flight patterns, including extreme variations in altitude and speed compared to previous missions. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's medical and professional history, noting that the pilot had been previously terminated from another company due to alcohol-related issues.
Investigators also found that the pilot's communication with air traffic control at the start of the flight was disorganized, involving incorrect radio frequencies and the use of the wrong phonetic alphabet. Furthermore, the investigation noted that an engine air intake cover had not been removed prior to departure.
Findings
- The primary cause of the crash was the helicopter entering a settling with power condition, triggered by low-speed maneuvers and a sudden increase in wind from behind.
- The pilot's decision-making was compromised by alcohol impairment, as a blood test taken four hours after the accident revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 2.29 ‰.
- The pilot's reaction time and situational awareness were significantly reduced due to intoxication.
- The operator, Kallaxflyg, lacked specific organizational procedures for managing suspected substance abuse among employees.
- There was a failure in the regulatory oversight chain, as the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority had been made aware of the pilot's previous alcohol-related legal issues but had not mandated a new medical examination.