What happened
On February 7, 2017, an MD Helicopters 6/00N helicopter, registration N245SE, was cleared for takeoff from the runway at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. Within approximately 20 seconds of departing the runway, the aircraft entered an uncontrolled right turn during its initial climb. The helicopter struck the ground approximately 15 meters from the runway edge near the intersection of Alpha and Bravo. The impact was so severe that the aircraft was destroyed, and the pilot and crew sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The DGAC/UIA investigation examined the aircraft's maintenance records, flight logs, and the physical wreckage. Investigators found that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date and compliant with manufacturer specifications, and the fuel was uncontaminated. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's credentials and the aircraft's weight and balance. While the aircraft's ECU/FADEC system recorded engine parameters, the lack of a cockpit voice recorder or flight data recorder meant investigators relied on wreckage analysis and air traffic control communications to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in an overweight condition, exceeding the permitted weight and balance limits by 91.5 pounds.
- The pilot lacked the specific type rating or authorization for the MD Helicopters 600N.
- The pilot's control inputs to correct the aircraft's attitude were performed too late to prevent the loss of control.
- The pilot demonstrated inadequate knowledge and understanding of the aircraft's flight control systems, specifically regarding the anti-torque pedal requirements for maintaining balanced flight.
- The aircraft was at an insufficient altitude to recover from the developing loss of control.