Incident Overview
On March 23, 2007, at approximately 11:00 local time, an operational incident occurred during a commercial helicopter lift operation in Cagetto, Brissago/TI, Switzerland. The aircraft involved was a Eurocopter France AS350 B3 with registration HB-ZEJ, operated by Tarmac Aviation SA. The mission involved transporting materials from a pickup area to a construction site located within a residential area near Locarno. The pilot was accompanied by two ground handlers on board, while a third handler assisted on the ground at the drop zone.
Operational Details
The operation was the fifth of the day for the operator. Previous eight rotations had been completed successfully using a 50-meter transport rope. During the ninth rotation, the crew attempted to relocate a palm tree approximately 1.5 meters tall and weighing roughly 150 kg from a terrace to a new spot 15 meters away and three meters lower in elevation. The load was secured using a crossed double strap configuration attached directly beneath the foliage of the short-stemmed plant.
Accident Sequence
According to the final report, while the load was being prepared for transport, one of three gardeners working nearby approached the loading area without being detected by the ground handler. Despite prior instructions from the handler to remain outside the danger zone, the individual remained close to the operation. Seconds after the palm tree was lifted into the air, it slipped out of the slings and fell. The falling object struck a third party on the head and back, resulting in significant injuries including concussion and retrograde amnesia.
Investigation Findings
The Bureau for Aircraft Accident Investigation (BFU) determined that there were no technical faults with the helicopter or its equipment that contributed to the event. The probable cause was identified as an extreme load attached in an inadequate manner, which subsequently detached. This failure mode resulted in injury to a person located within the danger zone. No damage was recorded to the aircraft itself, and no fatalities occurred among the crew or passengers.