What happened
On June 18, 2000, at approximately 18:00 local time, a Bell B-205A1 helicopter, registration EC-GDN, was engaged in firefighting operations near Benahavís, Málaga. Operated by FAASA, the aircraft was flying in a Southeast-Northwest direction after having just deployed a team of workers to assist with a nearby wildfire. The helicopter was configured with an Isolair 4600-205 underslung water tank, and the suction hose was deployed during the flight.
While traversing a mountainous area near the Guadalmansa River, the aircraft encountered two high-voltage power line sets crossing the valley. After successfully passing the first set of lines, the helicopter struck the second set of cables. The impact caused the main rotor assembly to separate from the mast and induced a severe bank of over 45 degrees. The aircraft lost control, entered a steep dive, and struck the terrain. The subsequent impact and a following explosion caused a major fire that destroyed the aircraft. The single fatality was the pilot.
The investigation
The investigation examined the wreckage, witness statements, and meteorological conditions. Investigators found that the upper shield wire of one of the power lines had been severed. Physical evidence from the wreckage indicated that the impact likely occurred on the main rotor mast, between the cabin and the rotor head. The investigation also considered whether the deployed suction hose might have snagged the cables, though the pilot's ability to activate the emergency release in such a rapid sequence was uncertain.
Meteorological data showed clear skies and good visibility, though the sun's position at 18:00 in June, combined with the flight direction, presented a potential for glare. The pilot's records showed significant experience in firefighting campaigns, though he had only been working for the specific operator for three days and was not yet familiar with the local terrain.
Findings
- The immediate cause of the accident was the collision with high-voltage power lines, which led to the separation of the main rotor from the airframe.
- The pilot's lack of familiarity with the specific local terrain may have resulted in an incomplete assessment of obstacles.
- Potential solar glare, caused by the time of day, flight direction, and climbing attitude, may have obscured the visibility of the wires.
- There was a possibility of pilot overconfidence after successfully clearing the first set of power lines.
- The aircraft was operating under VFR conditions in suitable weather, and the equipment for the firefighting mission was properly certified.