What happened
On October 29, 2004, at approximately 17:05, a Kamov Ka-32A12 helicopter, registration HB-XKE, was performing heavy-lift operations to assist in the construction of a chairlift in Champéry, Switzerland. The crew was engaged in a series of 33 rotations to transport components for the installation.
As the afternoon progressed, weather conditions deteriorated significantly due to encroaching fog. The pilots were forced to alter their approach paths to the loading area multiple times to maintain visual references. During one direct approach to the landing site, the turbulence and downwash generated by the helicopter's rotors lifted a four-meter-long squared wooden log. The log was projected into the air, striking a lead installer on the back and causing light injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the operational environment and the crew's recent flight history. It was established that the crew had been engaged in an intense work week involving multiple heavy-lift missions across Switzerland and Austria. The investigation noted that the loading area had not been fully cleared of unanchored objects, despite prior instructions to do so.
Investigators also reviewed the crew's flight logs and found that the pilots had been operating under significant pressure. While the aircraft itself showed no mechanical defects, the investigation focused on the decision-making process regarding the continuation of operations despite deteriorating visibility and the presence of loose debris on the ground.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the approach to a loading area that had not been sufficiently prepared, allowing the rotor downwash to displace a wooden log.
- Time pressure and crew fatigue, resulting from a demanding schedule of heavy-lift missions, contributed to the incident.
- Inadequate coordination and cooperation between the flight crew and the ground personnel involved in the transport operation.
- The decision to continue flight operations despite worsening meteorological conditions and reduced visibility.