AAIB investigation to AW169, G-KSSC

AW169 (G-KSSC), helicopter downwash moved cricket pitch ground cover causing injury to one person, Bearsted Common, Maidstone, 11 October 2023

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 13 June 2024

• Category: Commercial - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 11 October 2023
• Aircraft type: AW169
• Location: Bearsted Common, Maidstone, Kent
• Registration: G-KSSC

During the final approach to a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) landing site, the rotor downwash from the helicopter moved an unsecured ground cover on a cricket pitch. The cover struck a bystander on the leg causing a minor injury.

Safety action was taken by the operator to amend its Operations Manual to include enhanced guidance for pilots on helicopter downwash.

Download the report:

AW169, G-KSSC 06-24

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 13 June 2024