AAIB investigation to Bell 429, M-YMCM

Bird strike on approach to Edinburgh Airport, 25 November 2018.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 13 June 2019

• Category: Commercial - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 25 November 2018
• Aircraft type: Bell 429
• Location: On approach to Edinburgh Airport
• Registration: M-YMCM

Summary:

Whilst on short final to Edinburgh Airport, at approximately 100 kt, the helicopter suffered a bird strike to the left windscreen. The windscreen shattered and debris entered the cockpit, injuring the occupant in the left seat, who required hospital treatment.

The Bell 429 windscreen is not designed to withstand bird strikes and the design certification requirements do not require it to do so. A recent study by the Rotorcraft Bird Strike Working Group has recommended the introduction of bird strike protection requirements for Normal category rotorcraft to minimise the risk of damage or injury.

Download report:

Bell 429, M-YMCM 06-19 2.2

Download glossary of abbreviations:

Glossary of abbreviations

Published 13 June 2019