What happened
On the evening of 7 January 2024, a Leonardo S.p.A AW109SP helicopter, registered as A6-RRR, was conducting a private flight in the United Arab Emirates. The flight originated from a private helipad in Ajman with the intention of relocating to a temporary landing site at Al Zorah to collect passengers for a subsequent trip to Dubai.
After receiving clearance from Sharjah Tower, the pilot commenced the flight and climbed to 500 feet. As the aircraft approached the temporary landing area in Al Zorah, the pilot attempted to identify the landing markings, which were being illuminated by two police vehicles. During the final descent, the downwash from the helicopter's rotors disturbed a significant amount of powder on the ground. This sudden cloud of dust obscured all visual reference points for the pilot. Consequently, the aircraft rolled to the right, causing the main rotor blades to strike the ground. The helicopter came to rest in a tilted position.
The investigation
The UAE Air Accident Investigation Sector (AAIS) launched an inquiry into the event, involving international representatives from Italy and Canada. The investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance history, the pilot's experience, and the environmental conditions at the time of the impact. Investigators also reviewed the status of the landing site, noting that the helipad was not officially certificated and lacked standard aids to navigation, such as a windsock or permanent lighting system.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the sudden loss of visual references caused by dust and powder being kicked up by the aircraft's own downwash during the landing approach.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the right-side structure and the main rotor blades.
- The landing site was a temporary, uncertified helipad lacking essential aeronautical aids.
- The pilot was uninjured and was able to vacate the aircraft safely.