What happened
On June 4, 2019, a Bell 206 L3 helicopter, registration SE-HVJ, was performing a specialized utility flight near Porjus in Norrbotten County, Sweden. The mission involved transporting sacks of firewood via sling load to a remote resting area near a mire.
After successfully delivering the cargo, the crew—consisting of a pilot and a mission specialist—prepared to depart. The aircraft had landed adjacent to a wooden footbridge that spanned the marshland. As the pilot attempted to lift the aircraft into a hover to return to base, the helicopter experienced a sudden and rapid roll to the left. This movement caused the main rotor to strike the ground, resulting in the aircraft overturning onto its left side. While the crew experienced physical pain in their necks and backs, no injuries were sustained.
The investigation
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority (SHK) examined the wreckage and the landing site. Investigators noted that the footbridge, which consisted of parallel planks supported by transverse bars, had been disturbed. Specifically, one of the transverse planks had been displaced, and the gangway itself had shifted to the left and suffered a break.
Physical evidence found on the underside of the displaced wooden plank included marks that matched both the shape and color of the "bear paw"—a protective plate located on the rear left portion of the helicopter's landing gear. Interviews with the crew confirmed there were no mechanical failures or technical issues with the aircraft prior to the incident.