Incident Involving an EC 135P2+ Helicopter at Kielce Airport (SP-HXG)

Incident Overview and Location On 5 October 2018, an incident was recorded involving an EC 135P2+ helicopter at Kielce Airport (EPKE). The event was classified as an incident by the State Commission for Investigation of Aviation Accidents (PKBWL), with the investigation concluded on 16 October 2018. ## Circumstances and Findings At 06:40 local mean time, during a pre-flight inspection prior to assuming a HEMS duty, the pilot identified a crack in the lower part of the tail skid, along the static discharger attachment. Following consultation with the technical control center, the helicopter was removed from service. ## Maintenance Actions and Outcome Technical personnel from the SOT Warszawa Babice maintenance station performed the required inspections in accordance with MSM 05-51-00, 6-3, and no further irregularities were found. The tail beam support (skid) was replaced in accordance with AMM 53-50-02, 4-2. The helicopter was subsequently returned to service. ## Probable Cause and Safety Recommendations The probable cause of the incident was determined to be contact between the tail beam skid and the ground. The operator did not take preventive actions, and the PKBWL did not issue any safety recommendations.