What happened
On the night of September 5, 2016, a Robinson R202 Beta helicopter, registration G-SPEE, departed from the Moret-Episy aerodrome for a flight to Reims-Prunay. The flight was intended to be a daytime mission, but delays during refueling and preparation forced the pilot to proceed under night VFR conditions.
During the flight, the pilot contacted air traffic services, noting difficulties with the weather elements and expressing an intention to divert to Châlons-Vatry. Radar data later revealed that the aircraft performed several turns, including one exceeding 360 degrees, and fluctuated in altitude, occasionally dropping below regulatory minimums. At approximately 21:52, radar contact was lost as the aircraft struck the ground with high energy. The pilot was killed, and the helicopter was destroyed.
The investigation
The BEA investigation examined the aircraft wreckage, meteorological data, and the pilot's flight history. Examination of the wreckage showed no technical failures prior to the impact. Investigators also reviewed radar recordings and radio communications, which indicated the pilot was struggling to maintain visual references.
Witness testimony revealed that the pilot had been traveling by car to the departure airfield and had been advised by a passenger to postpone the flight due to deteriorating weather, including low stratus and drizzle. Furthermore, other pilots at the airfield had attempted to dissuade the pilot from taking off that night.
Findings
- The pilot lacked the required night VFR qualification for helicopter operations.
- The pilot had not flown a helicopter in ten months, indicating a lack of recent experience.
- The flight originated from Moret-Episy, an aerodrome not approved for night VFR operations.
- Meteorological conditions, including low ceilings and precipitation, were incompatible with VFR night flight standards.
- The pilot lost all external visual references, leading to the controlled flight into terrain.