AAIB investigation to EC225 LP Super Puma, G-REDW - Special Bulletin S2/2012

Investigation update on the accident that occurred on 10 May 2012, 20 nm east of Aberdeen

From:
Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Published
16 December 2014
Category:
Commercial - rotorcraft
Report type:
Special bulletin
Date of occurrence:
10 May 2012
Aircraft type:
EC225 LP Super Puma
Location:
20 nm east of Aberdeen
Registration:
G-REDW

Summary:

The crew of the helicopter carried out a controlled ditching following indications of a failure of the main gearbox (MGB) lubrication system and, subsequently, a warning indicating failure of the emergency lubrication system. All passengers and crew evacuated the helicopter into a life raft and were subsequently rescued. Two passengers sustained minor injuries. The investigation has identified a 360° circumferential crack in the bevel gear vertical shaft in the main gearbox, in the vicinity of a manufacturing weld, causing disengagement of the drive to both mechanical oil pumps.

Download report:

Special Bulletin - S2-2012 G-REDW\S2-2012 G-REDW v2

Published 16 December 2014