AAIB investigation to Airbus Helicopters EC120B Colibri, G-SWNG

Right engine cowling opened during landing and struck the main rotor blades, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire, 17 August 2017.

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

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 17 August 2017
• Aircraft type: Airbus Helicopters EC120B Colibri
• Location: Wellesbourne, Warwickshire
• Registration: G-SWNG

Summary:

The right engine cowling opened and struck the main rotor blades as the helicopter flared to land. The incident was caused by the three cowling latches remaining unlocked after maintenance completed prior to the flight. The pilot did not complete a walkaround inspection, prior to the flight, which should have identified the unlocked latches.

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Airbus Helicopters EC120B Colibri, G-SWNG 03-18

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Published 8 March 2018