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26 Jan 2020: Sikorsky S76 B (N72EX) — Island Express — Calabasas, CA

9 fatalitiesCalabasas, CA, United States

A Sikorsky S76B helicopter crashed into hilly terrain during a flight from Santa Ana to Camarillo, resulting in nine fatalities.

What happened

On January 26, 2020, at approximately 0945 PST, a Sikorsky S76B helicopter, registration N72EX, crashed into hilly terrain near Calabasas, California. The aircraft was being operated by Island Express Helicopters on a flight from John Wayne Airport (KSNA) in Santa Ana to Camarillo Airport (KCMA).

Following the impact, a fire broke out, which subsequently spread to the surrounding brush. The crash resulted in 9 fatal injuries, involving the pilot and eight passengers. The helicopter was destroyed in the accident.

At the time of the event, weather conditions at Van Nuys airport, located approximately 14 miles northeast of the crash site, were reported as 1,100 feet overcast with 2.5 miles of visibility. The flight was being conducted under visual flight rules (VFR) under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 135.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the pilot's decision to proceed with the flight under visual flight rules despite encountering instrument meteorological conditions, leading to spatial disorientation and loss of aircraft control. Contributing factors included the pilot's plan continuation bias and self-induced pressure, as well as the operator's insufficient oversight and review of its safety management processes.

Contributing factors

PilotOperatorCompliance w/ procedureDecision related to conditionNot installed/availableATC personnel

Related events

Same aircraft