AAIB investigation to Airbus Helicopters AS355F1 Ecureuil II, G-OHCP

Having entered IMC, descended and struck the Summit of Rhinog Fawr, Snowdonia, 29 March 2017.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 8 March 2018

• Category: Commercial - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Field investigation
• Date of occurrence: 29 March 2017
• Aircraft type: Airbus Helicopters AS355F1 Ecureuil II
• Location: Summit of Rhinog Fawr, Snowdonia
• Registration: G-OHCP

Summary:

The helicopter was flying on a Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flight plan from its operating base near Cranfield Airport on a direct track to a private site near Dublin. The weather on departure was suitable for VFR flight but, as forecast, deteriorated markedly in the area of Snowdonia with low cloud and rain. The helicopter flew over a witness 4.3 nm southeast of the accident site before disappearing into the cloud. Shortly afterwards it struck the east side of Rhinog Fawr Mountain, fatally injuring the five occupants.

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Airbus Helicopters AS355F1 Ecureuil II, G-OHCP 03-18

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Published 8 March 2018