What happened
On August 14, 2007, at approximately 20:13 local time, two helicopters engaged in firefighting operations near Tíjola, Almería, collided while approaching a water reservoir. The aircraft involved were an Agusta Bell AB 412, registration EC-JNP, and a Bell Helicopter B 412, registration EC-GPA.
Both aircraft were participating in the INFOCA wildfire suppression program. At the time of the accident, both helicopters were attempting to refill their water buckets from the same reservoir. The EC-JNP was returning from a water drop at a nearby ridge, while the EC-GPA was approaching the reservoir to begin its loading sequence.
During the approach, the two aircraft collided. The impact caused the EC-JNP to crash into the reservoir, where it overturned and caught fire. The pilot of the EC-JNP sustained serious injuries and lost consciousness, requiring rescue by bystanders. The EC-GPA suffered damage to its landing gear and water bucket components but was able to perform an emergency landing on nearby terrain.
The investigation
The CIAIAC investigation examined flight tracking data, witness statements, and the physical wreckage. Analysis of GPS tracking systems revealed that while the pilots had an informal agreement to follow a sequence, they were using different approach paths and descent profiles. The investigation established that the EC-JNP was departing the reservoir area approximately 50 seconds before the EC-GPA arrived, but their final positions were nearly identical in terms of heading, speed, and altitude.
Investigators also reviewed communication logs and found that while the aircraft were on a shared frequency, there was no established protocol for communicating specific positions or intentions regarding the reservoir approach. Furthermore, the reservoir's limited surface area (approximately 220 m²) made simultaneous operations by multiple aircraft highly hazardous.
Findings
- The collision was caused by the lack of established procedures regarding specific entry and exit routes for water replenishment.
- There was an absence of effective communication between the two aircraft regarding their respective positions during the approach to the reservoir.
- There was a lack of coordination for aerial assets operating outside the immediate fire perimeter.
- The physical constraints of the reservoir prevented safe simultaneous operations by more than one helicopter.