What happened
On October 4, 2012, at approximately 07:10 a.m., an AS365 N2 helicopter, registration N646GE, was taxiing from Hangar #58 toward the main ramp at Dr. Joaquín Balaguer International Airport (MDJB) in Santo Domingo Norte. The flight was a private operation intended to relocate the aircraft for pre-flight checks for an upcoming international flight.
While maneuvering near the intersection of E1 and H2, the pilot attempted to pass between a parked helicopter, registration N305RB, and Hangar #41. The clearance between the stationary aircraft and the structure was insufficient, causing the N646GE main rotor blades to strike the front right corner of the hangar. The impact resulted in the destruction of all four main rotor blades and damage to the upper left cockpit glazing. Fragments of the rotor blades were propelled across the airfield, causing secondary damage to several hangars (numbers 14, 15, 36, 38, and 39) and impacting multiple parked aircraft, including N441BP, HI915, HI-925, and N218DM.
Both occupants of the helicopter were uninjured.
The investigation
The CIAA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, the pilot's flight history, and meteorological conditions. The investigation also included an analysis of air traffic control (ATC) communications and a review of the airfield layout. Investigators noted that the pilot's toxicology results were negative for all substances.
The investigation also highlighted significant procedural issues at the aerodrome. The commission found that the accident scene had been contaminated because debris was cleared and aircraft were moved before the CIAA could arrive. Furthermore, the investigation established that the ATC tower lacks full visibility of the hangar area, preventing effective traffic control during ground movements.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was human error, specifically the pilot performing a high-risk, reckless maneuver with insufficient safety margins.
- The clearance between the parked N305RB and Hangar #41 was too narrow for the attempted passage.
- ATC visibility of the hangar area is inadequate, which prevents controllers from providing effective oversight of ground movements.
- The mechanical systems and engines of the N646GE were functioning correctly at the time of the event.
- Meteorological conditions were favorable for the operation.