What happened
On April 25, 2016, an AS 300 B2 helicopter, registration PR-YCB, was performing a transfer flight and basic instruction mission from Piraquara Aerodrome (SISY) to Bacacheri Aerodrome (SBBI). The flight was operated by the Fund for Improvement of the Santa Catarina’s Military Fire Brigade.
Shortly after departing the ground, and before the aircraft could stabilize in a hover, the helicopter tilted sharply to the right and executed a 90-degree turn to the left. During this maneuver, the aircraft rolled around its longitudinal axis and flipped to the right. The main rotor blades struck the ground, causing the tail cone to section and the right windshield to break. Despite the substantial damage to the airframe and rotor system, the two crewmembers and one passenger were unharmed.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the aircraft's flight control systems, including the cyclic, collective, and pedal assemblies. A technical analysis involving representatives from HELIBRAS and maintenance investigators confirmed that the flight control system was functioning normally prior to the event. The investigation concluded that the observed damage was a direct result of the impact between the blades and the terrain and the subsequent rollover.
Meteorological data indicated that while conditions were suitable for VFR flight, the area was experiencing winds from 330° with gusts up to 25 knots. The investigation also noted that the aircraft's maintenance logs for the month of March 2016 had not yet been updated at the time of the incident.
Findings
- The pilot's decision-making was impaired by self-imposed pressure due to time constraints and other scheduled activities on the day of the flight.
- An inadequate risk assessment led to the decision to proceed with a vertical takeoff despite unfavorable environmental conditions.
- The pilot failed to adequately assess the risks associated with the prevailing wind conditions during the critical takeoff phase.