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Pilot inexperience led to Sunrise crash
June 21, 2013 By Carey Fredericks
June 21, 2013 Winnipeg - The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) today released its investigation report (A12C0084) into the controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) of a Bell 206B from Sunrise Helicopters Incorporated that occurred on July 5, 2012, near Angusville, Man.
The pilot was completing a fungicide spraying operation near Angusville when the helicopter descended, contacted the crop, and struck the ground. The helicopter came to rest on its side with substantial damage. The pilot was taken to hospital with serious injuries; however, the fact that the pilot was wearing a helmet and used the 4-point harnesses likely enhanced the survivability of the impact.
The investigation determined that there was no malfunction in the aircraft system. It also determined that although certified and qualified for the flight in accordance with existing regulations, the pilot had an experience level that was low for the complexity of the assigned task. It was therefore unrealistic that the pilot could complete the high-risk spraying operation successfully.
Since the accident, all spray pilots employed by Sunrise Helicopters Incorporated must have a minimum of 2000 hours total flying time. Also, the
experience of the pilot is now matched to the requirements of the spraying contract.
CFIT or collisions with land and water are a TSB Watchlist issue.
