What happened
On October 1, 2009, at approximately 14:26 local time, a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, registration OB-1911-P, crashed in the Cusco region of Peru. The aircraft, operated by Coyotair Peru S.A.C., had departed from Ayacucho at 12:45 local time on a VFR flight plan destined for a company camp in the Madre de Dios Department.
During the flight, the aircraft struck the terrain at an altitude of 11,500 feet in an area covered with ichu grass near the Naranjayoc settlement. The impact was severe, causing the aircraft to disintegrate and subsequently catch fire. The crash resulted in three fatalities, including the pilot and two passengers (a mechanic and a fuel foreman). The aircraft was a total loss.
The investigation
The investigation conducted by the CIAA examined the aircraft's maintenance records, engine performance, and meteorological conditions. Investigators recovered the Vehicle Engine Multifunction Display (VEMD) and sent it to the BEA in France for data extraction. The analysis of the VEMD confirmed that there were no engine failures or operational overloads during the flight, which lasted 2 hours and 29 minutes.
Technical inspections of the rotor blades, transmission, and engine showed that the components were in airworthy condition. The investigation also reviewed the company's operational manuals and the pilot's training records. While the pilot was properly licensed and medically certified, the investigation noted that the company's route guide lacked specific information for flights originating from Ayacucho.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT), occurring because the crew failed to adhere to the Visual Flight Rules (VFR) required for operations within GOLF airspace.
- Adverse weather conditions in the area, confirmed by satellite imagery, acted as a contributing factor.
- The company's General Operations Manual did not adequately address procedures for flying in adverse meteorological conditions along the route.
- The aircraft's ELT failed to activate because the antenna was separated from the unit during the impact.