What happened
On November 29, 1999, an Emerald Pacific Airlines UH12E helicopter, registration B31007, was conducting an aerial insecticide spraying mission over a banana plantation near Pingtung Airport. After completing seven spraying cycles, the aircraft flew toward Chishan Base. During the return leg, the pilot requested to fly along the Kaoping Stream, descending to approximately 50 feet to follow the water's edge.
At approximately 1008, the aircraft struck the water near a sand-retaining dam. The impact was severe, causing the airframe to be destroyed by excessive external forces. The cockpit flooded immediately upon impact. While the mechanic managed to exit the aircraft and sustained only minor injuries, the pilot was unable to escape the sinking cockpit and drowned while attempting to swim to shore.
The investigation
The investigation examined the meteorological conditions, flight regulations, and crew performance. Investigators found that visibility at the time of the accident was approximately 3,20 and below the required 5km minimum for visual meteorological conditions. Furthermore, the flight was conducted at an altitude of 50 feet, which violated the Visual Flight Rules prohibition against flying below 500 feet.
Technical reviews confirmed that the UH12E was airworthy and its maintenance records were in order. However, the investigation identified significant regulatory lapses, including the failure to file a flight plan and the pilot's decision to proceed without verifying accurate weather information. The investigation also noted that the pilot had not briefed the mechanic, which prevented the crew from effectively monitoring ground proximity.
Findings
- The aircraft was flying in poor visibility and failed to maintain a safe altitude, leading to a lack of situational awareness regarding the water surface.
- The pilot operated the aircraft at 50 feet, violating the 500-foot minimum altitude requirement for visual flight.
- The pilot relied on weather reports from ground personnel rather than verifying official meteorological data.
- There was a failure to utilize Crew Resource Management (CRM) effectively, as the pilot did not brief the mechanic to assist in monitoring terrain.
- No flight plan had been filed for the mission, violating established aviation regulations.
Safety action
Following the investigation, several recommendations were made to Emerald Pacific Airlines, including the requirement for aircraft to carry proper safety equipment for water operations and the implementation of mandatory Crew Resource Management training. Recommendations were also issued to the Civil Aeronautics Bureau to increase industry inspections regarding weather minimums and flight plan compliance.