Incident Overview
On 5 September 2012, a serious incident (near collision) occurred involving a Eurocopter EC120B helicopter, registration HB-ZFM, and a Reims Aviation F152 fixed-wing aircraft, registration HB-CNI. The event took place approximately 5 nautical miles west-northwest of Emmen airfield. The helicopter was operated by Swiss Helicopter AG, while the aircraft was operated by Flying Ranch AG.
Aircraft Details
The Eurocopter EC120B, manufacturer Eurocopter (Marignane, France), was registered in Switzerland as HB-ZFM. It was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) for a commercial flight, departing from and destined for Pfaffnau (LSXP). The aircraft, a Reims Aviation F152 (also known as Cessna F152), was manufactured by Reims Aviation S.A. (Reims, France), registered HB-CNI, and was being flown under VFR for a private flight from Triengen (LSPN).
Investigation
The Swiss Accident Investigation Board (SAIB/SUST) conducted the investigation, resulting in final report number 2223. The report covered technical aspects, meteorological conditions, mutual visibility, and human and operational factors. It also included sections on communication, airspace, transponder usage, and air traffic control services provided by Skyguide. No injuries or damage to the aircraft were reported in connection with the incident.