What happened
On 31 December 2013, an Agusta 109S helicopter, registration A6-MSM, was performing a private passenger flight from Abu Dhabi's Al-Bateen Executive Airport to Al Ain International Airport. After landing on taxiway Charlie and receiving instructions to proceed to stand nine, the crew began taxiing via taxiway Lima.
During the ground movement, the aircraft deviated from the designated lead-in line, moving more than 48 meters to the right. As the helicopter moved toward the edge of the apron, the tips of the main rotor blades struck a metal jetblast fence used for engine run-ups. The impact caused severe damage to all four main rotor blades. Following the strike, the pilot immediately shut down the engines to prevent further damage or instability.
The investigation
An investigation by the GCAA AAIS focused on the ground movement of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the collision. Investigators examined the flight path, noting that the helicopter had crossed the taxiway lead-in line significantly far from its intended path. The investigation also reviewed the actions of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower and the visibility of the crew.
While the aircraft was under active ATC monitoring, the investigation found that the controller did not intervene or alert the crew to their proximity to the fence. Additionally, although a marshaller was present on the apron, their distance from the helicopter meant their signals were not observed by the crew. The investigation confirmed that the physical location of the jetblast fence met all required clearance regulations, meaning the fence itself was not a contributing factor.
Findings
- The crew failed to maintain an appropriate external peripheral view during the taxiing and parking phases.
- The helicopter deviated from the lead-in line by more than 48 meters, moving toward the obstruction.
- The Tower Controller observed the aircraft moving away from the ground guide line but did not take action to stop the helicopter before the impact occurred.
- The inappropriate taxiing procedures and insufficient situational awareness of the crew were the primary causes of the incident.
- Weather conditions were clear and did not contribute to the event.
Safety action
- A recommendation was issued to Falcon Aviation Services to enhance crew training, specifically focusing on maintaining external peripheral vision during ground movements.
- A recommendation was issued to Al Ain International Airport to improve the level of ATC visual monitoring of maneuvering and taxiing areas during aircraft ground operations.