What happened
On 30 December 2021, an Airbus AS 350 B3 helicopter, registration PK-ODB, was performing an unscheduled flight through the Papua region of Indonesia. The flight originated from the KM 7 Helipad, traveling toward Tanah Merah via several intermediate stops. After an initial leg to Camp 67, the aircraft proceeded to Camp 99.
Upon arriving at Camp 99, video footage from local residents indicated that the aircraft landed during heavy rainfall. During the ground stop, cargo was unloaded and two new passengers boarded the aircraft. The engine was not shut down during this period. Approximately two minutes after departing Camp 99, the pilot attempted to climb but observed that the weather was rapidly deteriorating. While attempting to turn back toward Camp 67, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of altitude, and the aircraft impacted the terrain approximately 0.56 nautical miles from the helipad. All 4 occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The KNKT investigation examined the flight history, weather conditions, and aircraft maintenance records. Investigators reviewed local video footage of the landing at Camp 99 and interviewed witnesses who discovered the wreckage. Witnesses reported hearing the sound of the aircraft followed by a thunderclap, and later noticing the smell of burning wires near the crash site. The investigation also reviewed the operator's Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), which specify weather minimums of 1/2 nautical mile visibility and clear of clouds, particularly in mountainous terrain.
Findings
- The pilot held a valid commercial helicopter license and a current medical certificate.
- The aircraft maintained a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and Certificate of $\text{Registration}$.
- No mechanical abnormalities were reported prior to the accident.
- While the pilot had received weather reports suggesting good conditions at a nearby location, the actual weather at the landing site was characterized by heavy rain.
- The accident occurred during a climb when the pilot attempted to divert due to deteriorating weather conditions.