What happened
On August 15, 2015, an Airbus Helicopters EC120B, registration SE-JJM, operated by Kallaxflyg, was en route from Alta Airport to a maintenance base near Kiruna, Sweden. During the flight, the pilot performed several unusual maneuvers, including 360-degree turns at low altitude and low airspeed. The pilot also diverted from the planned route to observe wildlife on the ground.
While maneuvering near the terrain, the helicopter entered a state of uncontrolled descent. The pilot attempted to increase power, reaching 117% torque, but the aircraft continued to lose altitude. The helicopter struck the ground heavily in the Reisadalen region, resulting in significant damage to the nose, tail boom, and landing gear. The pilot sustained a back injury during the impact.
The investigation
The investigation by the Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority (SHT) examined the flight data, weather conditions, and the pilot's history. GPS data revealed a pattern of high-risk flying, including significant variations in altitude and speed. Investigators also noted that an engine air intake cover had not been removed prior to departure.
Post-accident medical testing revealed the pilot had a blood alcohol concentration of 2.29‰. The pilot stated he consumed a large amount of spirits from a bottle found in his gear to alleviate the pain from his spinal injury following the crash. The investigation also looked into the pilot's professional history, noting previous terminations related to alcohol misuse and a prior conviction for driving under the influence.
Findings
- The primary cause of the crash was the helicopter entering a settling with power condition, triggered by low airspeed and high power demand during a maneuver.
- The pilot's decision-making was severely impaired, likely due to alcohol impairment.
- The pilot exhibited erratic behavior during takeoff, including using the wrong radio frequency and incorrect phonetic alphabets.
- The operator lacked specific organizational procedures for managing suspected substance abuse among employees.
- There was a failure in regulatory oversight, as the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority did not act on information regarding the pilot's previous alcohol-related legal issues.