What happened
On 20 July 2021, a Sikorsky S 76++ helicopter, registration PK-TVY, was performing an unscheduled passenger charter flight for PT. Travira Air. The flight originated from Matak Airport, Indonesia, with the intention of delivering personnel to the Soehan and offshore rig helipad in the South China Sea.
The flight, which carried two pilots and seven passengers, proceeded without any reported mechanical issues or system abnormalities from departure until the final approach. However, at approximately 1316 LT, as the aircraft was moments away from touching down on the Soehanah helipad, the helicopter tumbled to the right. The aircraft came to a halt roughly 12 meters from the center of the helipad's D-Value. While the aircraft sustained severe damage, including broken main and tail rotor blades, all occupants were evacuated safely by rig crews, and no injuries were reported.
The investigation
Due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, investigators relied on documentation provided by the operator to assess the site. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and the pilots possessed the necessary licenses and medical certifications.
Physical inspection of the wreckage revealed that the main rotor blades were broken and scattered, with several pieces lost to the sea. The right main landing gear positioning rod was found bent approximately 120 degrees inward. The impact also caused damage to the helipad's surface safety net, which required repairs.