Occurrence
On August 2013, a VIH Helicopters Ltd. Kamov Ka-32A11BC, registration C-GKHL, serial number 31594, was engaged in fire suppression operations using a water bucket attached to the helicopter's external load belly hook via a long line. At approximately 1830 Pacific Daylight Time, immediately after the helicopter lifted a water load from a high-altitude mountain lake, a loud bang was heard, followed by howling and grinding noises. The helicopter then began to shake severely.
Emergency Landing
In response to the vibrations and abnormal sounds, the pilot not flying released the external load (line and water bucket). The pilot flying maneuvered the helicopter toward land for an emergency landing. The crew experienced difficulty maintaining directional control, and the shaking was so intense that they could not read the instrument displays. The helicopter touched down while drifting sideways to the right, with near-full left cyclic control input applied. Upon touchdown, the helicopter bounced and rolled onto its right side. The main rotor blades struck the ground and broke.
Aftermath
After the helicopter came to rest on its side, the crew shut down the engines and exited the aircraft with minor injuries. No fire occurred. The 406 MHz emergency locator transmitter activated upon touchdown.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada classified this occurrence as a Class 3 investigation. Class 3 investigations analyze a small number of safety issues and may result in recommendations. They are generally completed within 450 days.