What happened
On January 5, 2006, at approximately 11:25 UTC, an Agusta A-109A II helicopter, registration I-DPCA, was conducting a low-altitude training flight in a mountainous region near Monte Livata, Italy. The flight, operated by Compagnia Aeronautica Italiana S.p.A., was intended for terrain familiarization and low-level maneuvers.
During the execution of a ground approach maneuver, the aircraft struck the surface with a nose-down attitude and significant forward speed. As the pilot attempted to increase collective pitch to avoid the main rotor blades striking the ground, the helicopter briefly regained altitude. However, the right landing gear partially sank into the fresh snow, inducing a rightward yaw. This caused the aircraft to tilt onto its right side, leading to a heavy impact where the main rotor blades struck the terrain and were destroyed. The crew, consisting of a commander and a safety pilot, evacuated the aircraft safely without injury.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation focused on the flight dynamics and environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation established that the aircraft was in a valid state of airworthiness, with no reported mechanical malfunctions or system failures prior to the event. Meteorological conditions were favorable, with no significant wind or critical weather elements present.
The investigation examined the specific terrain conditions, noting that the chosen approach area was covered in fresh snow, which created a bright white surface that contrasted sharply with the surrounding trees. The crew had a coordinated procedure where the safety pilot would call out the 50-foot altitude mark to signal the commander to reduce the descent rate. The investigation found that the commander experienced a sudden change in light and glare due to the snow, which compromised visual references.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was an incorrect approach maneuver by the pilot in command, characterized by an inaccurate assessment of the aircraft's altitude above the ground.
- The pilot's perception of the height was compromised by sudden changes in light and glare caused by the reflective properties of the fresh snow.
- The aircraft sustained extensive damage to the main rotor hub, swashplate, blades, transmission, central fuselage, tail boom, and landing gear.
- There were no injuries to the two crew members.