MD 900 Helicopter Crash Near Heiligenblut, Austria

No fatalities • Heiligenblut, Austria

A medical services helicopter crashed into mountainous terrain during takeoff from a high-altitude lodge in Austria.

What happened

On August 1, 2017, at 1815 UTC, a McDonnell Douglas MD 900 helicopter, registered OE-XWF, crashed into mountainous terrain approximately 8 miles west-northwest of Heiligenblut, Austria. The aircraft was operating an emergency medical services flight originating from Matrei-Osttirol Heliport, Austria, to airlift a tourist experiencing a medical emergency from a lodge near the summit of Mount Grossglockner, located at 11,630 ft. MSL.

During the takeoff phase from the lodge, the helicopter experienced an uncommanded yaw to the right. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground and rolled onto its right side. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. There were no fatalities among the pilot, the two medical crewmembers, or the passenger, though one medical crewmember sustained minor injuries.

Probable cause

The provided source does not state an official probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Aug 2017 MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD900 accident near Heiligenblut, Austria?

A medical services helicopter crashed into mountainous terrain during takeoff from a high-altitude lodge in Austria.

Were there any fatalities in the 1 Aug 2017 MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD900 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Aug 2017 involved a MCDONNELL DOUGLAS MD900, operated by Heli Austria GmbH, at Heiligenblut, Austria.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The provided source does not state an official probable cause.

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