AW139 Main Rotor Collides with Offshore Platform Structure During Night Training

Casualties unknown • BACIA DE SANTOS, SP, BR

An AW139 helicopter sustained substantial damage after its main rotor struck structures near a helideck during a night-time training mission in the Santos Basin.

What happened

On June 2, 2021, at approximately 22:35 UTC, an AW139 helicopter, registration PR-OTF, was conducting a night-time training mission involving offshore takeoffs and landings. The flight originated from Jacarep_paguá Aerodrome, bound for the SS-75 Ocean Courage maritime unit in the Santos Basin.

As the aircraft was in the final phase of its approach for the first offshore landing, the main rotor collided with structures located near the platform's helideck. The impact caused widespread damage to the aircraft's structure, including the destruction of the main rotor blades and internal fragmentation of the engine. The collision also damaged the platform's fire station, handrails, ladders, and various sensors.

The pilot in command sustained minor injuries, and the passenger was uninjured. However, the second-in-command and an occupational safety technician on the helideck suffered serious injuries.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and a failure to execute a go-around, driven by the crew's lack of recent experience in night-time offshore landings and inadequate organizational oversight regarding mission-specific training requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2021-06-02 aircraft accident near BACIA DE SANTOS, SP, BR?

An AW139 helicopter sustained substantial damage after its main rotor struck structures near a helideck during a night-time training mission in the Santos Basin.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2021-06-02 involved a aircraft, registration PROTF, at BACIA DE SANTOS, SP, BR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by an unstable approach and a failure to execute a go-around, driven by the crew's lack of recent experience in night-time offshore landings and inadequate organizational oversight regarding mission-specific training requirements.

Loading the flight search…