Accident Overview
On 17 April 2026, at approximately 15:33 local time (04:33 UTC), a Bell 222U helicopter registered H4-HSA, operated by Helicopter Support Limited, suffered a left engine failure shortly after departing Munda International Airport in the Solomon Islands. The aircraft was conducting a VFR humanitarian charter flight to island communities south of Munda.
Flight Path and Engine Failure
The helicopter departed Munda International Airport at 15:28 local time and climbed to about 500 ft above ground level, tracking south over water. Approximately 10 minutes into the flight, the left engine's RPM indicated a rundown. The pilot transmitted a PAN call to Munda Air Traffic Services and turned back toward Munda. However, the helicopter could not maintain altitude and continued a gradual descent.
Emergency Landing and Evacuation
At 15:41 local time, the pilot declared a full emergency with a MAYDAY call. As the helicopter descended, the pilot selected a visible submerged sandbank and deployed the aircraft's emergency floatation equipment just before impact. The helicopter came to rest on its skids on a reef adjacent to the sandbank, partially submerged. The pilot shut down the operating engine, and both the pilot and loadmaster evacuated the helicopter. They were shortly rescued by locals in dinghies from nearby islands.
Occupants and Damage
There were two persons on board: the pilot and the loadmaster. No injuries were reported. The aircraft sustained no impact-related damage apart from detached float covers and exposure to saltwater.
Investigation Status
The investigation is being conducted by the PNG Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) under delegation from the Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands. A team of investigators was deployed to the site. The investigation is ongoing and will include flight operations, systems, performance, and maintenance aspects. No safety actions or recommendations have been issued at the time of this preliminary report.