History of the Flight
On 11 October 2019, a Bell 412 EP helicopter registered SU-CBX was operating a non-scheduled commercial flight from the Saipem 3000 vessel to Port Said Airport (HEPS). The helicopter carried three passengers and two flight crew members. Approximately 25 minutes into the flight, while cruising, the aircraft experienced severe spinning, which led to a loss of control. The helicopter subsequently impacted the water surface.
All five occupants managed to evacuate the aircraft safely. The helicopter sank in the Mediterranean Sea.
Investigation
The Egyptian Aircraft Accident Investigation Directorate (EAID) opened an investigation under reference EGAI2019-006. Investigators conducted the following activities:
- Created a photographic record of the accident site and wreckage.
- Performed technical inspections and collected relevant data.
- Interviewed both flight crew members and passengers.
- Completed readouts of all available data from on-board recorders.
- Carried out detailed visual inspections in coordination with technical advisers from the airframe manufacturer (Bell Helicopter Textron) and the engine manufacturer (Pratt & Whitney).
Current Status
As of the interim statement, no safety recommendations had been issued. The investigation is ongoing, with completion of the final report stated as the next step.
Location and Damage
The accident occurred in the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 65 miles north of Port Said city. The helicopter was destroyed.