What happened
On December 18, 2008, an Agusta A 109 E helicopter, registration F-GXDF, was preparing for a flight from the Monaco heliport to a landing site near Saint-Tropez. The pilot initiated a takeoff in a hover facing northwest before turning to begin a translation toward the sea. Shortly after crossing the edge of the helipad, the aircraft began a right-hand rotation to return to the platform. During this maneuver, the helicopter lost altitude, and the right landing gear struck the edge of the platform. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft ultimately crashed onto a breakwater located below the platform, resulting in the destruction of the helicopter.
The investigation
The investigation, supported by surveillance camera footage, focused on the aircraft's performance and the pilot's cockpit procedures. Investigators examined the airframe and engines, finding no mechanical anomalies. The investigation centered on the engine power selectors, which can be left in the