What happened
On 22 March 2007, an SA342J helicopter, registration SE-HUN, was involved in an accident near Broby säteri in Södermanland county, Sweden. The aircraft, which had recently been sold by a Swedish owner to an Italian company, was being used for a brief flight test by a pilot intended to take over the aircraft.
During the flight, which consisted of several low-altitude maneuvers and circuits around a farmhouse, the engine stopped. The pilot, who was attempting to manage the aircraft, was unable to execute a controlled forced landing. The helicopter struck the ground at a high forward speed, banking heavily, and eventually came to rest on its side. The pilot and a passenger both sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) utilized radar data and a video recording made by the previous owner to reconstruct the flight. The investigation examined the aircraft's fuel system, engine, and control systems, as well as the pilot's credentials.
Investigators analyzed the fuel consumption, estimating that the engine had been running for approximately 19 minutes from startup to the accident. This period required roughly 43 liters of fuel. Video evidence from the start of the flight showed the fuel gauge indicating a level well below 50 liters. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the pilot's authorization to operate the specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The engine stopped during the flight due to fuel exhaustion.
- The pilot failed to perform adequate pre-flight preparations, including a required daily inspection and a proper cockpit checklist.
- The rotor speed was dangerously low at the moment of impact, which prevented the pilot from performing a controlled descent.
- The pilot did not possess the necessary civilian authority or type rating to operate the SA342J.
- No mechanical or technical failures were found in the engine, fuel system, or hydraulic components.