Accident Overview
On September 5, 2019, at 15:24 UTC, an Airbus Helicopters AS350 B2 helicopter, registered as CS-HFT and operated by Helibravo, collided with high-voltage power lines in Sobrado, Valongo, Portugal. The aircraft was engaged in firefighting operations at the time of the accident, which occurred during a low-altitude flight (LALT). The investigation was conducted by the Portuguese Office for the Prevention and Investigation of Accidents in Civil Aviation and Rail (GPIAAF).
Aircraft and Operator
The helicopter involved was an Airbus Helicopters AS350 B2, a single-engine light utility helicopter. The operator was Helibravo, a Portuguese helicopter operator. The aircraft's registration is CS-HFT.
Location and Circumstances
The accident site was located in the parish of Sobrado, in the municipality of Valongo, Portugal. The helicopter was conducting firefighting operations, which typically involve low-altitude flying and the use of external equipment such as buckets. The collision occurred with power lines, resulting in damage to the aircraft.
Investigation
The GPIAAF investigated the accident as part of its mandate to improve aviation safety. The final report, titled "Wire Strike During Firefighting" (original: "Colisão com cabos durante combate incêndio"), was published on July 8, 2020. The investigation included analysis of flight data, wreckage, and operational procedures. The report underwent peer review by the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).
Conclusion
The report concluded that the accident was a collision with power lines during firefighting operations. No probable cause was officially stated in the available source material.