What happened
On March 5, 2025, a Bell UH-1D helicopter, registration LV-IUH, was performing a non-scheduled firefighting operation near Posadas, Argentina. While in the landing phase of flight, the aircraft experienced a powerplant failure or malfunction. The helicopter impacted the ground on a flat, grassy surface approximately 10 km from the aerodrome. The impact occurred at a low speed of approximately 3 knots with a level pitch and a slight bank. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, and a post-impact fire or smoke was observed.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical failure of the engine and the subsequent loss of control during the landing sequence. Investigators examined the wreckage and recovered all components related to the tail rotor, the tail rotor gearbox, and the pedals. The aircraft was powered by a Honeywell T53-L-13B turbine engine. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials, noting the pilot-in-command held a valid commercial helicopter rating but had only 2.1 hours of flight time in this specific type of aircraft. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were within Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC), with visibility of 999 meters and light winds of 8 knots.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was a powerplant failure or malfunction during the landing phase.
- The aircraft sustained significant damage, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.
- There was one person on board the aircraft, who sustained minor injuries and successfully evacuated the wreckage within one minute.
- The aircraft's emergency locator transmitter (ELT) was not activated during the event.