The pilot lost control of the helicopter whilst manoeuvring at low speed to approach a hilltop landing site in quite strong wind conditions.  The investigation determined that an error of judgement or perception led the pilot to attempt a downwind approach. A combination of human factors was thought to have contributed to the accident.

Date:

28 October, 2010

Reg:

G-SEWP

Make:

Eurocopter

Model:

AS355

MSN:

5480

Location:

Yellow Road area of Hilltown

Country:

UK

Civil / Military:

Civil

Operator:

Police-Service-of-Northern-Ireland

Link:

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/northern-ireland-police-helicopter-crashes-in--mourne-mountains-14989406.html

Link:

http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/police-helicopter-overturns-at-crash-site-479481.html

Link:

http://www.aaib.gov.uk/publications/bulletins/june_2011/as355f2_twin_squirrel__g_sewp.cfm