What happened
On a wildlife survey mission in the Yukon, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration C-GHZN, crashed on Nares Mountain near Carcross. The flight, operated by Horizon Helicopters Ltd., began in Whitehorse to transport government surveyors to various bear-bait sites. Throughout the day, the crew navigated high winds that limited access to certain high-elevation locations. After refueling at Carcross, the pilot attempted to visit remaining sites during the return leg. The aircraft's last GPS position was recorded at 1507, shortly before an emergency locator transmitter signal was received by the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.
Search and rescue efforts located the wreckage approximately 5 nautical miles east of Carcross. The accident resulted in one fatality and two injuries, with one passenger suffering serious harm and another sustaining minor injuries. There was no fire at the crash site.
The investigation
Investigators examined the operational and environmental conditions surrounding the flight. The analysis focused on the pilot's approach to the landing site and the impact of local weather. The investigation established that the pilot did not perform a reconnaissance pass before attempting to land at the final site. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the mechanical performance of the engine and rotors during the descent, as well as the use of personal protective equipment by the pilot.
Findings
- The pilot failed to conduct a reconnaissance pass, leaving them unaware of the strength of the down-flowing air near the landing zone.
- The aircraft encountered severe downdrafts on the lee side of the mountain ridge.
- The pilot attempted a landing where the power required to maintain altitude exceeded the power available, leading to a loss of rotor RPM and an unrecoverable rate of descent.
- The pilot was not wearing a flight helmet, which increased the severity of the fatal head injuries.