AAIB Bulletin: 9/2008, AS32B lightning strike, North Sea, en-route to Aberdeen UK, Feb. 2008

AAIB Bulletin: 9/2008, AS32B lightning strike, North Sea, en-route to Aberdeen UK, Feb. 2008

Publication info
Author
AAIB UK
Category
Accident Reports Human Factors Loss of Control Airworthiness

On 22 February 2008, a Eurocopter AS332 L2 Super Puma flying from an offshore oil platform to Aberdeen was struck by lightning. There was no apparent consequence and so, although this event required a landing as soon as possible, the commander decided to continue the remaining 165nm to the planned destination which was achieved uneventfully. Main rotor blade damage including some beyond repairable limits was subsequently discovered. The Investigation noted evidence indicating that this helicopter type had a relatively high propensity to sustain lightning strikes but noted that, despite the risk of damage, there was currently no adverse safety trend.

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