Occurrence
On 22 October 2015, at approximately 1342 Central Standard Time, a Hughes 369D helicopter (registration C-FOHE, serial number 410942D) operated by Oceanview Helicopters Ltd. was conducting aerial work on power lines near Paynton, Saskatchewan. The aircraft was engaged in installing a marker ball while in a hover at about 325 feet above ground level. During this operation, the helicopter experienced an engine failure. It descended suddenly and collided with the terrain. The impact and subsequent fire destroyed the helicopter. The emergency locator transmitter activated upon impact but was destroyed by the post-impact fire.
Injuries
The pilot and the external platform worker were fatally injured in the accident.
Aircraft Damage
The helicopter was destroyed in the post-impact fire.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 3 investigation into the occurrence. The investigation analyzed a small number of safety issues and may result in recommendations. No probable cause was stated in the investigation report.