AAIB investigation to AS-350, D-HKMB
Underslung load struck electricity pylon, Auchmacoy, Aberdeenshire, 17 September 2022.
Summary:
The helicopter was conducting a survey operation which required flight on closely-spaced parallel tracks at low height. During the turn between two tracks it descended, and the underslung sensor array struck an electricity supply pylon. The impact severed the electricity supply cables causing a loss of power to approximately 1,682 properties. The pilot was unaware of the event and continued his planned sortie.
Following this event, the CAA stipulated enhanced risk mitigation measures for such operations.
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Published 9 February 2023