Pilot Debrief

EUROCOPTER AS 350 B3 near Deer Valley, AZ — 2022-04-17

Final reportWPR22LA154
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Date
2022-04-17
Location
Deer Valley, AZ, USA
Airport
DVT
Aircraft
EUROCOPTER AS 350 B3
Registration
N808LF
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The fuelers improper action during the refueling process.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the helicopter reported that, he was on the ramp with the engine running to accomplish a rapid refuel. The fueler was attempting to attach the grounding cable to the helicopter and due to the cable not locking, he maneuvered the cable up and down, which then contacted the main rotor blades. The pilot reported he felt a “violent jolt” and immediately shut the engine down. The fueler’s hands were seriously injured. The main rotor blades were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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