What happened
On November 20, 2020, an Airbus Helicopters AS-350 B3, registration LV-FQN, was conducting a private general aviation flight from Salta to a private airfield in the Salta province of Argentina. During the flight, the pilot requested a trajectory change to fly via the Cabra Corral dam.
While navigating the Río Juramento canyon, the aircraft struck the cables of a canopy zipline system. The impact caused the helicopter to crash into the riverbed, resulting in the fatalities of both occupants. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, with the engine and fuselage suffering catastrophic damage.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the technical and operational aspects of the flight path and the environmental conditions. Investigators examined flight data recorder information, which provided navigation details and cockpit imagery from takeoff until the moment of impact.
Technical analysis of the aircraft's systems and engine showed no evidence of mechanical failure; all components were operating normally prior to the collision. The investigation also reviewed the presence of the canopy cables, noting that while the system was marked with orange beacons, the terrain and flight maneuvers made them difficult to detect. The investigation also confirmed that the pilot had correctly recorded the altitude instructions from air traffic control, but the aircraft was flying at an altitude lower than the authorized 7,000 feet.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating below the minimum safety altitude and at a lateral separation distance less than the regulatory requirements for mountainous terrain.
- The geographical features of the canyon, including the loss of the horizon due to mountain peaks, significantly hindered the crew's ability to visually identify the cables.
- The aircraft's wire strike protection system was unable to withstand the impact of the steel cables.
- No evasive maneuvers were recorded prior to the collision.
- The pilot in command, while holding a helicopter license, was not specifically rated for the aircraft type being operated at the time of the accident.
Safety action
- ASO AE-76-23: Operators and owners are reminded that helicopters operating at low altitudes in confined areas face increased risks of obstacle collision. To mitigate this, it is essential to adhere to established minimum safety altitudes and maintain reduced speeds to allow for the timely detection of obstacles and other aircraft.