AAIB investigation to Leonardo AW169, G-HHEM

Serious injury to member of the public caused by downwash, Southend, Essex, 28 February 2026

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 12 November 2026

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 28 February 2026
• Aircraft type: Leonardo AW169
• Location: Southend, Essex
• Registration: G-HHEM

The air ambulance helicopter was departing from a field having been on a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) task. Soon after the aircraft had taken off a member of the public, who was standing outside their house, was blown over by the helicopter’s downwash and was seriously injured.

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Leonardo AW169, G-HHEM 11-26

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Glossary of abbreviations