What happened
On the afternoon of 18 November 2016, an Airbus Helicopter AS350 B3e, registration 9M-APL, was approaching the SK Batu Melintang school field in Kelantan, Malaysia, to pick up passengers. The aircraft was returning from a previous operational area and was initially attempting a westerly approach into the wind.
However, the pilot encountered significant glare from the direct afternoon sunlight. To mitigate this, the pilot initiated a 180-degree turn to change the approach direction. During this maneuver, the aircraft encountered gusting winds, leading to a loss of control. The tail-rotor assembly struck the ground, causing it to detach from the main airframe. Despite the structural damage, the pilot managed to bring the aircraft to a safe, upright landing.
The investigation
AAIB Malaysia investigators examined the wreckage and analyzed data from the aircraft's Vision 1000 system, which provides light audio and image recordings. The investigation focused on the flight dynamics during the turn and the roles of the two occupants, both of whom were pilots, though only one was rated on this specific aircraft type.
Analysis of the recorded data revealed that the pilot seated in the left-hand seat was operating the controls during the descent and approach. While the pilot-in-command (PIC) attempted to intervene and take control, this resulted in a brief period of dual input on the flight controls, which likely exacerbated the instability caused by the wind gusts.
Findings
- The accident was a result of mishandling the aircraft during a turn in gusting wind conditions.
- The tail-rotor assembly, including the gearbox and blades, separated from the tail-boom upon ground impact.
- The pilot-in-command permitted an individual who was not rated on the aircraft type to maintain control of the aircraft, which contributed to the loss of control.
- There were no injuries to the two occupants on board.
Safety action
- The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) is tasked with reviewing the pilot's actions and implementing necessary remedial measures.