S76, vicinity Moosonee ON Canada, 2013

S76, vicinity Moosonee ON Canada, 2013

Summary

On 31 May 2013 the crew of an S76A helicopter positioning for a HEMS detail took off VFR into a dark night environment and lost control as a low level turn was initiated and did not recover. The helicopter was destroyed and the four occupants killed. The Investigation found that the crew had little relevant experience and were not operationally ready to conduct a night VFR take off into an area of total darkness. Significant deficiencies at the Operator and in respect of the effectiveness of its Regulatory oversight were identified as having been a significant context for the accident.

Description

On 31 May 2013, a Sikorsky S76A (C-GIMY) being operated by Ornge Rotor-Wing on a HEMS positioning flight from Moosonee to Attawapiskat as Lifeflight 8 crashed following a night VMC take-off after the crew lost control at low level. Recovery did not occur and the helicopter was destroyed by the impact and the effects of a post crash fire. Both pilots and the two paramedics on board were killed. The wreckage, which was near to the departure airport, was not located for over 5 hours after the ELT failed to function.

Investigation

An Investigation was carried out by the Canadian Transport Safety Board (TSB). The Multi Purpose Flight Recorder (MPFR) carried, which was configured primarily as a 2 hour CVR, was recovered and its data successfully downloaded. These data proved crucial to the Investigation.

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