What happened
On 3 September 2005, an Agusta Westland 109-K2 helicopter, registration ZS-RRB, was performing routine marine pilot transfer services in Richards Bay Harbour. The aircraft, which had recently undergone a major 4,800-hour maintenance inspection, approached the Greek-registered cargo ship *Alpha Afovos* to pick up a marine pilot.
Rather than landing on the ship's designated landing area, the pilot and marine pilot agreed to perform a hoist operation from the vessel's bridge wing. As the hoist operator lifted the marine pilot, the helicopter began an uncontrolled roll to the right. The aircraft struck the ship's Inmarsat B antenna and main mast before plunging into the sea. While the pilot and the marine pilot survived with serious injuries, the hoist operator was fatally injured.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the flight conditions, aircraft maintenance records, and the operational procedures used during the incident. The investigation confirmed that the helicopter had been in service for only five hours following its heavy maintenance inspection.
Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's mass and balance. It was noted that no specific weight and balance calculation had been performed for this particular flight. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the cargo ship's role, noting that while the ship's crew attempted to assist, the vessel was released to continue its journey by maritime authorities before a SACAA investigator could inspect the structural damage caused by the rotor blade impact.
Findings
- The helicopter was operating with a marginal lateral centre of gravity position.
- The operation was conducted in strong cross-wind conditions, with winds from the left at approximately 24 knots.
- The pilot deviated from the original plan to land on the deck, opting instead for a bridge wing hoist.
- The additional weight of the marine pilot, combined with the wind and the aircraft's lateral balance, caused the helicopter to run out of left-hand control input, leading to the roll.
- The hoist operator's safety harness was identified as an unsuitable type for such operations.
Safety action
- It was recommended that all flight crew be encouraged to wear helmets to prevent fatal head injuries during impact.
- The investigation highlighted the need for a formal Memorandum of Understanding between aviation and maritime authorities to ensure proper accident scene preservation.
- Recommendations were made to standardize the operator's flight folio to ensure all maintenance and defect information is accurately recorded.
- The study of international best practices for cable jettison procedures during emergencies was suggested.