Activity
Helicopter Operations
Helicopter transport, boarding, landing, refuelling and offshore aviation interfaces.
Documents
- 202621 May
AW139 Tail Rotor Duplex Bearing Failure Discovered During Maintenance
AAIB investigates a tail rotor duplex bearing failure on AW139 G-CIMU, discovered during maintenance at Norwich Airport after offshore passenger operations. Forensic examination could not establish the initiating cause. Rig testing discounted removal damage, while flight-data analysis identified pedal-position trends. The report examines inspection limits, condition monitoring and critical-part regulatory assurance.
- 2025Dec
Health Safety Insight 2025
Annual review of UK offshore energy health and safety, centred on 2024 performance with historical comparisons. It examines hydrocarbon releases, maintenance backlogs, injury trends, medical assessment outcomes and evacuations, including mental health. Offshore aviation analysis covers fleet utilisation, helicopter safety indicators and the inclusion of wind operations.
- 202522 May
EC175 B Rotor Blade Failures at Offshore Platform During Strong Winds
Investigates rotor blade failures on EC175 B G-MCSH at the Elgin platform during strong winds. A partially seized rotor brake prevented blade securing; local vertical airflow was considered to exacerbate blade sailing. The report examines maintenance, securing equipment, helideck airflow, wind reporting and flight recorder anomalies, and makes six safety recommendations.
- 202516 Apr
BSEE: Crane safety awareness during offshore helideck operations
An offshore helicopter landing nearly ended in collision when a crane operator raised the boom as the aircraft was 10 feet from touchdown. The pilots performed a successful go-around. Drawing on BSEE findings, the flash highlights procedural enforcement, communication and coordination, with recommendations also applicable to vessel approaches and simultaneous operations.
- 202515 Jan
Crate Lid Dislodged Overboard
During helicopter operations at a drilling rig on the UK Continental Shelf, a wooden lid measuring 3 m by 3 m and weighing approximately 40 kg became detached from a hose transport crate and blew overboard. Nobody was in the area; the alert highlights storage risks near helidecks.
- 20245 Nov
BSEE Safety Alert 491 - Vigilance Required in Offshore Helideck Operations
A helicopter approaching an offshore helideck avoided collision by going around after a crane boom was raised near the landing area. The alert identifies communication and procedural enforcement shortcomings. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider crane-movement suspension, coordinated communications, helideck checks, training and routine audits.
- 202410 Oct
BSEE Safety Alert 490 - Helideck Condition Notifications and Verification
A helicopter pilot diverted after discovering that an offshore helideck’s capacity had been reduced from its published rating of 12,000 lbs to 6,000 lbs. The alert examines delayed notification and recommends considering verified capacity information, verbal checks before flight and landing, updated procedures, marking recognition training and prompt communication of changes.
- 20249 May
AW139 Struck Lamp Post While Taxiing to Park
An AW139 struck a lamp post while taxiing to park at Norwich Airport, damaging all five main rotor blades without injury. The investigation examines misinterpretation of stand markings and attention during manoeuvring. Safety action introduced marshalling for crews not based at Norwich and planned replacement of stand markings.
- 202414 Feb
BSEE Safety Alert 481 - Hazardous Helideck Conditions Results in Near Miss Incident
An offshore helideck near miss involved unsecured safety skirting moving in helicopter rotor downwash after landing clearance. BSEE recommends that operators and contractors consider checks before clearance, coordination of simultaneous operations, facility-specific procedures and briefings, alongside notifications and visible markings for out-of-service helidecks.
- 202416 Jan
BSEE Safety Alert 479 - Lack of Adherence to Helideck Safety Procedures Results in Series of Near Miss Incidents
BSEE reviews six helideck near misses involving gas venting during approach, loose debris, grease, unsafe approach to a running helicopter, crane interference and raised handrails. It recommends that operators and contractors consider personnel instruction, facility-specific procedures, operational planning and pre-arrival briefings to strengthen helideck safety.
- 202314 Nov
Safely Approaching a Helicopter on Offshore Helidecks
An offshore crew-change near miss involved personnel approaching a helicopter from the rear while its rotors were moving and before pilot clearance. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider pilot confirmation, aircraft-specific safe entry zones, passenger familiarisation and facility-specific procedures. The alert also describes the air crew’s stop-work intervention.
- 20239 Nov
Flooding and partial sinking of an inflatable migrant boat with at least 27 lives lost
Investigation into an inflatable migrant boat’s flooding and partial sinking in the Dover Strait, with at least 27 deaths. Examines emergency-call reconciliation, coastguard staffing, cross-border coordination, helicopter and cutter searches, thermal detection limitations and forensic drift modelling. The initial water-ingress cause and exact casualty location remained undetermined.
- 20232 Nov
Pedestrian Injuries from Sikorsky S-92A Downwash During Hospital Landing
Investigates fatal and serious pedestrian injuries caused by downwash during a Sikorsky S-92A landing at Derriford Hospital. Examines approach planning, public access, risk assessments, warning signs, staff competence and hospital–operator coordination. Reviews landing-site guidance and sets out recommendations and safety action addressing risks beyond the landing-site boundary.
- 202313 Jul
Sikorsky S-92A Exceeded Airspeed Limit During Search and Rescue Training
A Sikorsky S-92A search and rescue training flight encountered unexpected turbulence, probably associated with mountain waves near the Sperrin Mountains, and exceeded its airspeed limit. The report examines recorded flight data, wind-calculation delays and meteorological evidence. A precautionary diversion followed; inspection defects were considered probably pre-existing by the manufacturer’s representative.
- 2023
Standards for offshore helicopter landing areas (Version 9.1, 7 January 2026; publisher status Current)
Sets criteria for offshore helicopter landing areas on installations and vessels, alongside wind-turbine winching arrangements. Covers structural loading, obstacle protection, surface friction testing, lighting, motion monitoring, meteorological reporting, rescue and fire-fighting, fuel-system design and maintenance, and passenger preparation. The January 2026 amendment introduces arrangements for temporary safety-critical equipment unserviceability.
- 202122 Oct
Helideck Incidents
This safety alert introduces two recent offshore events in which helicopter rotor downwash dislodged secured items. The supplied landing-page excerpt identifies the shared mechanism but provides no individual case details, consequences or preventive recommendations; it directs readers to the full alert.
- 202117 Jun
Sikorsky S-92A Passed Close to Terrain in Degraded Visual Conditions
AAIB investigation of a Sikorsky S-92A serious incident near Shipston-on-Stour in degraded visual conditions. The helicopter passed within 28 ft of rising terrain without reported damage or injuries. Analysis examines manual flight, automation limitations, approach guidance, altitude alerts and crew intervention, leading to eight safety recommendations.
- 202113 Jun
Report - Offshore helicopter operations - April 2010
Updates an earlier review of Australian offshore helicopter support through operator and petroleum-company questionnaires and regulatory analysis. It compares provision with 2006, examines proposed rotorcraft rules and personal locator beacon interference, and reports improvements in monitoring systems, medical evacuation availability, flight tracking and helideck support.
- 202122 Apr
EC175B Accessory Gearbox Bearing Failure During Post-Maintenance Ground Run
An AAIB investigation examines an EC175B accessory gearbox bearing failure during a post-maintenance ground run at Aberdeen Airport. Excess grease and trapped air imposed excessive axial loading during alternator installation. Manufacturer testing informed revised maintenance instructions covering grease removal and V-band clamping. A subsequent similar event is also discussed.
- 202030 Jan
Near miss during helicopter operations
A crew member removed a helideck access chain during helicopter boarding and passed beneath the tail rotor despite a shouted warning. No injury occurred. The flash examines passenger judgement, access supervision and ineffective readiness checks, and recommends clearer boarding routes, passenger briefings and consideration of human factors in safety-system design.
- 202030 Jan
Sea King Accident During Hover Check
AAIB investigation of a Sea King accident during a hover check at Marchwood. Corrosion seized the swashplate spherical bearing following prolonged inactivity during sea transport. Maintenance and pre-flight checks failed to detect the restriction. Recorder analysis, CCTV and component examinations informed findings and changes to daily inspections.
- 201910 Dec
Safety Alert 373 - Lightning Strikes Threaten Aircraft on Helidecks
A lightning strike damaged an aircraft at an offshore oil and gas facility. The pilot initially found no damage and transported passengers; maintenance personnel subsequently identified damage. BSEE recommends operators and contractors consider thorough post-storm inspections, completing required checks and notifications before further flights, and briefing passengers on inspection actions.
- 20198 Aug
Sikorsky S-92A Wrong-Deck Approach During Offshore Shuttling
Investigates a Sikorsky S-92A wrong-deck approach during shuttling in the Brae field. Platform similarity and alignment, training workload and expectation biases weakened identification checks. The report examines flight management cues, helideck directories and operating procedures, describes the radio operator’s intervention, and records planned training and checklist reviews.
- 201911 Jul
EC175B Nose Landing Gear Collapsed on Landing
An EC175B helicopter’s nose landing gear collapsed on landing at Aberdeen Airport after a pintle pin failed. Investigation found that a bushing had been omitted during A-frame replacement. The report examines maintenance instructions, independent inspection, staffing and fatigue, and describes procedural changes and manufacturer inspection requirements.
- 2019Jun
Aviation (Helideck Operations)
An offshore inspection guide setting out regulatory responsibilities and success criteria for safe helideck operations. It covers team competence, certification, emergency planning, protective equipment, breathing apparatus monitoring and escape routes. Drone inspection risks and gas-linked wave-off lights are addressed alongside dutyholder performance scoring and enforcement expectations.
- 20199 May
AW139 Vibration During Climb with Tail Rotor Bonding Strip Cracking
An AW139 returned to Aberdeen after unusual vibration during climb. Examination identified fatigue cracking in three tail rotor bonding strips, with one strip and its cable fairing lost. Gearbox bearing spalling was unrelated. The manufacturer planned additional detailed visual inspection and a manufacturing-process review; EASA classified the event as ‘Not-Unsafe’.
- 20189 Aug
Sikorsky S-92A Nose Landing Gear Failed to Extend During Approach
An S-92A approaching Scatsta could not extend its nose landing gear despite recycling and emergency blowdown attempts. Ground engineering staff realigned the nosewheels with a lever, enabling a safe landing. Examination did not establish why self-centring failed. The operator addressed servicing awareness and links between emergency landing procedures.
- 201814 Jun
Helicopter navigation experienced magnetic interference
A crew-change helicopter flight lost electronic heading information because magnetic elements in passenger luggage interfered with instruments. Stereo speakers were identified as the source. Equipment checks found no damage or discrepancies. The flash describes passenger warnings, consent-based random luggage checks and the need for clearer information about prohibited items.
- 201822 Mar
Aircraft Accident Report 1/2018, G-WNSR High resolution
Investigation of G-WNSR’s loss of yaw control during landing at West Franklin. A failed tail rotor pitch change shaft bearing damaged the control servo; the initiating reason remained undetermined. The report examines missed HUMS warnings, software interfaces, maintenance review and crew decisions, documenting safety actions and recommendations. No injuries occurred.
- 201714 Dec
AW139 Landed on Wrong Offshore Platform Following Destination Change
An AW139 crew landed at Viscount instead of Vampire after a destination change was not reflected in flight planning software and inconsistent platform identifiers caused confusion. The investigation examines planning and radio communication, records proposed operator safety actions, and discusses industry recommendations for preventing wrong deck landings.
- 201714 Sep
AW139 Landed on Wrong Helideck Following Incorrect Destination Selection
An AW139 landed at Leman 27B rather than Shell Leman 26B after an incorrect destination was selected during manual flight planning. The investigation examines incompatible helideck codes, dropdown selection, passenger manifests and radio calls. Operator actions included secondary flight-plan checks, coding reviews and crew access to coding information.
- 201630 Aug
Safety Alert 322 - Helideck Obstructions and Compounding Procedural Errors Contribute to Five Near Misses on OCS
This alert describes five helicopter near misses at OCS oil and gas helidecks, involving uncommunicated closures, poorly visible status lighting and protruding obstructions near tail rotors. Recommendations address NOTAM checks, radio warnings, closure markings, helideck information plates, visual reconnaissance, crew resource management and landing position within the aiming circle.
- 20169 Jun
AW139 Landed on Wrong Offshore Platform During Line Training
An AW139 carrying ten passengers landed on Amethyst A1D instead of A2D during line training. The report examines similar platform appearances, flight-display waypoint presentation and destination-identification checklists. The crew attributed the error to early misidentification and considered simulator identification practices a possible contributory factor. No injuries or damage were reported.
- 20169 Jun
Sikorsky S-92A Landed on Wrong Offshore Helideck
Investigation of a Sikorsky S-92A landing on the unmanned Ensco 120 helideck rather than Buzzard in the North Sea. It examines visual misidentification, crew workload, radio interruptions, unused flight-management information and the decision to depart immediately. Potential safety actions concern navigation cross-checks, approach checklists and training.
- 201619 May
Preliminary report into helicopter crash near Bergen
This safety flash summarises preliminary findings from the fatal Airbus H225 accident near Bergen. During a flight from an offshore platform, the rotor head and mast detached while cruising at 600 m. The aircraft struck an island and caught fire. The preliminary report offers no conclusions or safety recommendations.
- 201613 Apr
August 2013 Super Puma helicopter crash
This flash summarises AAIB findings on the fatal Super Puma crash during approach to Sumburgh Airport in August 2013. It describes ineffective instrument monitoring, failure to level at minimum descent altitude, unclear operating procedures, suboptimal use of automation and unchanged landing expectations despite poorer than forecast weather.
- 201615 Mar
Super Puma Sea Impact During Non-Precision Approach to Sumburgh
Investigation of G-WNSB’s sea impact during a non-precision approach to Sumburgh, with four passenger fatalities. It examines ineffective instrument monitoring, approach procedures and automation use through recorded flight data and human-performance studies. Survivability analysis addresses underwater escape, emergency breathing systems, flotation, liferaft deployment and rescue, alongside recommendations and subsequent safety action.
- 201624 Feb
Helicopter rotor downdraft hazards – Oil & Gas UK (OGUK)
This safety flash describes helicopter downdraft lifting unsecured baggage and other objects near helidecks, including bags landing on a level 10 m below. It discusses wind effects, storage and ineffective crate-lid securing, and suggests reviewing risk assessments, briefing crews and securing or removing susceptible materials before flights.
- 20158 Oct
Fatal AW139 Accident During Departure in Darkness and Fog
An AAIB investigation examines the fatal AW139 departure near Gillingham Hall in darkness and fog. Recorded flight data and wreckage examination inform analysis of abnormal pitch, possible somatogravic illusion, crew co-ordination and automatic flight control use. The report also considers private-operation oversight, departure visibility requirements and two-pilot training.
- 201512 Jun
Safety Alert 316 - Aviation Near Miss
Two helicopters approached head-on near an airport, passing within an estimated 200 feet laterally without damage or injury. The alert discusses foggy conditions, inactive collision-avoidance functions and unused pulse lights. Recommendations address flight lighting, operational TCAS and intercom audio, alongside periodic mishap-response exercises and early notification.
- 20153 Mar
MSF: Near-miss – Supply vessel in path of helicopter making approach to platform
This safety flash relays a Marine Safety Forum near-miss involving a helicopter approaching a fixed installation. The aircraft abandoned its approach because a supply vessel occupied the go-around and take-off flight path. The supplied account identifies the conflicting vessel position but provides no detailed corrective measures.
- 201516 Jan
S92 helicopter pressure refuelling incident
This safety flash describes a near miss during helicopter pressure refuelling, circulated by Oil and Gas UK. An interruption to the aircraft’s fuel supply introduced a fuel–air mixture, closing tank vent valves. The resulting pressure build-up caused the sponson to rupture.
- 201416 Dec
Emergency Breathing System Passenger Briefings Following Super Puma Accident
This investigation update examines passenger briefings on emergency breathing systems following the Super Puma accident near Sumburgh. It explains compressed-air, rebreather and hybrid designs, identifying incomplete information about automatic air delivery in hybrid systems. Operators undertook to revise briefings to explain usability without a breath taken before submersion.
- 201410 Dec
Controlled Helicopter Ditching Following Main Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
This interim AAIB bulletin examines the controlled ditching of G-REDW following main gearbox lubrication warnings. It reports fatigue fracture of the bevel gear vertical shaft, corrosion and manufacturing inspection findings, and continuing investigation of the emergency lubrication warning. Fracture examination, dimensional measurements, fatigue testing and vibration monitoring inform the ongoing work.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Emergency Gearbox Lubrication Continued Despite Failure Warning During Testing
This tentative AAIB investigation bulletin examines the EC225 LP emergency gearbox lubrication system following G-REDW’s ditching. Component tests indicated that lubrication continued despite a failure warning. Analysis identified a possible pressure-sensor tolerance issue, and the bulletin recommends a design review to ensure accurate crew indications.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Sea Impact During Night Approach to Offshore Platform
Investigation of G-REDU’s sea impact during a night approach to ETAP examines crew misperception, approach monitoring, unavailable height warnings and survival arrangements. Recorded flight data, avionics memory extraction, simulations and specialist illusion analyses inform findings. All occupants were rescued uninjured; recommendations address approach procedures, warning systems, evacuation and rescue equipment.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Main Rotor Gearbox Failure During Offshore Passenger Flight
Investigation of G-REDL’s fatal North Sea accident during a passenger flight from the Miller Platform to Aberdeen. A second-stage planet gear fatigue fracture caused catastrophic main rotor gearbox failure. The report examines chip detection, HUMS limitations, particle identification and maintenance communications, recommending improved degradation detection and flight-crew warnings.
- 201410 Dec
Two EC225 LP Helicopter Ditchings in the North Sea
Combined investigation of two EC225 LP helicopter ditchings in the North Sea in 2012. Corrosion-pit initiated fatigue failures interrupted gearbox oil-pump drive. The report examines stress modelling, welding residual stresses, condition monitoring, misleading emergency lubrication warnings, evacuation and liferaft deployment, and records corrective actions and safety recommendations.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Rejected Takeoff Following Rotor Spindle Fatigue Failure
Investigation of a Super Puma takeoff rejection at Aberdeen Airport following rotor spindle fatigue failure. Metallurgical examination, finite element modelling, fatigue tests and flight-load measurements examined assembly preload, wear and interference-fit stresses. The report describes revised spindle assembly arrangements and recommends reviewing options to extend helicopter health and usage monitoring into rotating systems.
- 201410 Dec
AW139 Erroneous Warnings and Lost Indications During Offshore Flight
An AAIB investigation examines erroneous warnings and lost indications on AW139 G-CHCV over the North Sea, alongside similar incidents. Corrosion in an avionics module was linked to unfiltered, non-conditioned cooling air. Laboratory examination and water-spray testing explored the failures; the report recommends mandating a service bulletin for short-nose aircraft.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Winch Cable Failure During Casualty Recovery
An AAIB investigation examines a Super Puma winch cable failure during casualty recovery from a fishing vessel offshore near Sumburgh. Microscopic examination identified mechanical damage to most strands, possibly sustained across the vessel’s bow. The casualty and winchman remained on deck and were successfully recovered using the secondary winch.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Automatic Flight Control Systems Disengaged in Flight
An AAIB serious-incident account describes both automatic flight control systems disengaging on a Super Puma east of Aberdeen. The pilots regained balanced flight, descended into visual conditions and subsequently reset the systems. Manufacturer examination identified independent computer faults involving a broken circuit-board pin and an out-of-range supply voltage.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Engine Disconnected from Main Rotor Gearbox
AAIB investigation of a Super Puma incident at Aberdeen Airport examines freewheel wear that disconnected an engine from the main rotor gearbox. It analyses training-idle recovery, recorded flight data, maintenance requirements and simulator limitations, and makes four safety recommendations concerning pilot information, certification and simulation.
- 201410 Dec
Super Puma Lightning Strike During Oil Personnel Transport
An investigation of a Super Puma lightning strike during oil personnel transport examines rotor damage and concealed hydraulic actuator erosion. One hydraulic system lost fluid, but the aircraft landed safely. Bench testing and dismantling revealed internal damage, possibly partly from an earlier strike, prompting revised inspection procedures and flight crew guidance.
- 201410 Dec
Eurocopter EC155B1 OY-HJJ 07-14 v2
Investigation of a serious helicopter incident following departure from Clipper Gas platform. The aircraft approached within approximately 50 feet of the sea. Recorded data showed correct automatic flight-control performance with extensive manual override. The report examines crew responses, control-system defects, weighing and fuel-gauging errors, and subsequent operating restrictions.
- 201410 Dec
Sikorsky S-61N Rotor Struck Tanker Mast During Marine-Pilot Winching
An AAIB investigation examines a Sikorsky S-61N rotor strike against a tanker mast during marine-pilot winching near Sullom Voe. It analyses deck clearances, flight recordings and crew decisions, without establishing whether ship or helicopter movement caused the strike. Recommendations address mixed SAR/CAT duties, information exchange and winching-zone markings.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Ditched in North Sea Following Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
Preliminary AAIB findings describe the controlled North Sea ditching of an EC225 following gearbox lubrication warnings. A circumferential crack near a weld in the bevel gear vertical shaft stopped both mechanical oil pumps being driven. The bulletin outlines emergency lubrication, recorded vibration data, evacuation and continuing investigation.
- 201410 Dec
Agusta AW139 Fatal Accident Following Night Departure in Dense Fog
This preliminary AAIB investigation bulletin describes the fatal Agusta AW139 accident near Gillingham Hall following departure at night in dense fog. It presents recorded flight parameters, witness information and initial wreckage examination. No explanatory technical malfunction had been identified; investigation continued with attention to degraded visual environments.
- 201410 Dec
Incorrect Flight Recorder Torque Conversions Following Sikorsky S-76C++ Go-Around
This special bulletin examines incorrect flight-recorder torque conversions following a Sikorsky S-76C++ go-around at a private East Sussex landing site. Revised conversions revealed total torque above the maintenance threshold. Calibration supported the revised factors, and the AAIB recommended consolidated, correct conversion documentation for the affected flight data acquisition unit.
- 201410 Dec
EC225 Controlled Ditching Following Gearbox Lubrication Warnings
This preliminary AAIB investigation describes the controlled ditching of G-CHCN following gearbox lubrication warnings. Examination identified a circumferential shaft crack that interrupted oil pump drive. Recorded vibration indicators had exceeded alert thresholds on earlier flights. Occupants were rescued without injury, and airworthiness monitoring requirements were under review.
- 201410 Dec
AS332 L2 Fatal Sea Impact During Approach to Sumburgh Airport
This tentative AAIB special bulletin describes the fatal sea impact of an AS332 L2 helicopter approaching Sumburgh Airport. Preliminary recorder analysis traces declining airspeed and departure below the approach profile. Both engines delivered power until impact; no causal technical failure had been identified, and examination remained ongoing.
- 201410 Dec
Sikorsky S-61 N Sea Impact During Search and Rescue Hover
An AAIB account describes a Sikorsky S-61 N search and rescue mission near Handa island. While establishing a hover, the helicopter travelled backwards and developed a considerable descent rate before striking the sea. It inverted and sank slowly; all four crew escaped, boarded a liferaft and were rescued.
- 201410 Dec
Sikorsky S-76C Restricted Yaw Control During Approach
Investigation of restricted yaw control during a Sikorsky S-76C approach to Denham Aerodrome. The crew completed an uneventful running landing. Computed tomography and hydraulic bench checks identified a split solenoid valve ball causing internal leakage in the pedal damper trim actuator. Manufacturer advisory and flight manual changes were being prepared.
- 201410 Dec
Sikorsky S-92A Severe Vibration and Tail Rotor Pivot Bearing Separation
Investigation of severe vibration aboard Sikorsky S-92A G-CHCK, followed by a successful run-on landing. Tail rotor pivot bearing separation was probably preceded by retainer disbonding. The report examines bearing inspection access and instructions, revised inspection intervals, and a flight recorder configuration mismatch addressed through labelling and post-installation testing.
- 201410 Dec
Sikorsky S-92A Inadvertent Lift-Off Followed by Hard Landing
A Sikorsky S-92A at Scatsta Airport became airborne when the commander inadvertently raised the collective instead of applying the parking brake. Releasing the lever allowed the trim system to lower it, producing a hard landing and structural damage. The operator subsequently reinforced positive flight-control handover procedures.
- 20144 Jun
Unsecured object lifted by helicopter downwash
Helicopter downwash lifted an unsecured bench cover on a vessel and flung it onto a deck some 6 m below; nobody was in the landing area. Investigation identified missing securing provisions and unrecognised risk. Actions included additional securing inspections and risk assessment before installing new equipment near the helideck.
- 20142 May
Safety Alert 311 - Methane Venting Hazard to Helicopter Operations
BSEE warns that vented methane can enter helicopter engines near offshore helidecks, potentially causing overspeed or failure. Referencing one attributed accident and two similar accidents under investigation, the alert discusses flight-path precautions, operator notifications, visible wind indicators, vent warning beacons and draft recommendations for discharge siting and automatic detection.
- 2013May
Grounding of general cargo vessel Carrier
Investigates Carrier’s grounding at Raynes Jetty, North Wales, during departure in severe weather. Examines delayed departure decisions, mooring-line chafing, propulsion limitations, misunderstood weather forecasts and deficient jetty risk management. The report also analyses helicopter rescue difficulties and discusses improvements to marine operating guidance and training.
- 201211 Dec
Lost time injury (LTI): Person fell over on helideck and broke arm
This safety flash summarises a Marine Safety Forum incident in which helicopter turbulence knocked a landing officer off his feet during landing. He fell on the helideck and broke his arm. The account identifies inadequate sheltering from the helicopter’s downdraft as the immediate cause.
- 201220 Aug
Helideck Obstruction Hazard: Marking and Notification
Following a fatal helicopter crash, this alert examines helideck obstruction identification, closure marking and notification to aviation providers. A pilot attempted to land on an unmarked platform helideck apparently obstructed by a jackup. The reasons for the landing attempt remain unknown; management marked the helideck closed afterwards.
- 201021 Feb
Large Container Lifted by Helicopter Downdraft
A helicopter landing generated downdraft that lifted an unsecured container weighing around 200 kilograms over handrails. It fell around 10 metres to the deck below and was damaged. Stored on wooden battens beside the helipad, it had survived previous landings. No injuries occurred, but serious injury potential was reported.
- 2010Feb
A guide to the Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995 (Second edition)
Explains offshore management and administration requirements through regulatory text and accompanying guidance. Covers duty holders, installation managers, competence, permits, personnel records, written procedures and helicopter interfaces. It also clarifies when well service vessels become installations and addresses health surveillance, drinking water, provisions, identification and conditional exemptions.
- 200926 Nov
Helicopter Wheel Snags Helideck Net Near Miss with High Severity Potential
This alert describes a helicopter wheel snagging a helideck net after the aircraft moved forwards and sideways before take-off. The Helicopter Landing Officer noticed the snag and informed the pilot by radio. The net released itself as the wheel was lifted about 30 cm above the helideck.
- 200919 Jun
Reintroduction of personal locator beacons on helicopter flights
This safety flash relays an Oil & Gas UK announcement that personal locator beacons should be reintroduced for offshore helicopter passengers from mid-July. It follows an earlier UK Civil Aviation Authority announcement stopping their use, previously covered in another IMCA safety flash.
- 200925 May
Helicopter Operations – Ground Resonance Phenomena
The supplied alert excerpt describes a helicopter arriving at a MODU helideck for a routine crew change. Following a mutual safety signal, the landing officer exchanged manifests and passed food to the pilot while two assistants unloaded luggage from the aircraft’s starboard aft locker.
- 20096 May
Super Puma helicopter accident – initial report
This safety flash announces the AAIB’s initial report on a Super Puma helicopter accident in the North Sea. It highlights the potential relevance elsewhere of information about gearbox monitoring and warning systems on the helicopter type, without providing accident findings or technical details.
- 20083 Apr
Sikorsky S76A+ and S76A++ helicopters
This safety flash directs users of Sikorsky S76A+ and S76A++ helicopters to an alert originally issued through the OGP safety zone website. It concerns engine failures attributed to tachometer box faults and refers to a recommended remedy, without describing that remedy.
- 200826 Feb
Helicopter Lifts Off Without Warning While HLO Assists Passenger
A crew-change helicopter took off without warning while the Helicopter Landing Officer helped a seated passenger adjust his safety belt. The officer stepped back and closed the door. No visual or radio all-clear preceded departure, and the pilots did not reply to his subsequent contact attempt.
- 2008
Ensuring the wearing of immersion suits in helicopter evacuation or escape to sea
This information sheet examines immersion-suit availability during offshore helicopter evacuations. Keeping suits in cabins left some personnel without their usual protection after mustering. Duty holders should place suits near normal muster points wherever possible; otherwise, they should consider revising emergency procedures to allow retrieval before helicopter evacuation or escape to sea.
- 2005Nov
How offshore helicopter travel is regulated
Explains how offshore helicopter travel is regulated through the complementary roles of HSE and the Civil Aviation Authority. Describes responsibilities of helicopter operators, flight crews, installation operators and workers, covering aircraft airworthiness, helideck suitability, personnel competence and regulatory co-operation in the UK offshore oil and gas industry.
- 20052 Jul
Safe Helicopter Operations
An offshore crew-change alert describes helicopter boarding interrupted by a crane lift from an alongside supply boat. After an uneventful return flight, the pilot found ten passengers rather than the eight manifested. Subsequent manifest checks and weighing established that the aircraft had exceeded its maximum allowable weight by approximately 308 kg.
- 2004Mar
Flooding and sinking of twin rig trawler Elhanan T
Investigates Elhanan T’s flooding and sinking off Fraserburgh following compression-fitting failure and ineffective valve isolation. Examines bilge pumping, watertight subdivision and maintenance, alongside rescue communications and the transition to salvage. Releasing the nets altered stability, causing capsize; the skipper and helicopter winchman were subsequently recovered without injury.
- 20037 Nov
Helicopter Landing Incident
This alert describes a helicopter landing attempt on a MODU under tow. Approaching the heliport from the bow, the aircraft’s tail rotor struck and severed two antennas mounted above the adjacent ballast control room. The supplied account provides no incident date or preventive recommendations.
- 200215 Feb
Helideck Operations
This safety flash alerts members involved in helideck operations to correspondence and an enclosure from CHC Scotia Ltd. IMCA states that it is awaiting the AAIB report on the referenced accident before commenting further. The supplied page gives no accident details or specific preventive measures.
- 20005 Jun
Helicopter Loading / Unloading Practices
An alert describes cargo unloading from a helicopter at a rig while the aircraft remained running for a quick turnaround. A co-pilot pushed cargo towards two roustabouts without their knowledge. A wheel-mounted casing cutter rolled out of the cargo bay and fell onto one worker’s foot, injuring him.
- 19943 Mar
Safety Alert 11 - Crane/helicopter Operations
An alert describes a crane boom swinging in line with a helideck while a helicopter idled before take-off on a Pacific offshore platform. It reiterates crane shutdown, boom securing and operators leaving cabs, recommends arrival announcements, and attaches guidance on pilot–operator coordination, crane visibility and warning indicators.
- 19936 Apr
Safety Alert 9 - Platform Helideck Obstructions
A helicopter skid spring snagged beneath helideck perimeter tubing used to deter seagulls with compressed air. The alert identifies nearby drilling equipment, wind conditions and tubing as contributing circumstances. It requests obstruction inspections, consideration of remedial options, pilot awareness of local conditions and immediate communication of helideck changes.
- 19925 Sep
Safety Alert 7 - Platform Helideck Closing Procedures
Following a helicopter landing during platform natural gas venting in the Pacific Outer Continental Shelf Region, MMS found differing helideck closure procedures among operators. The notice requests adherence to existing closure procedures when necessary and staff awareness of changes, while possible standardised requirements remain under investigation.
- 1990Nov
The Public Inquiry into the Piper Alpha Disaster: Volume 2
This inquiry volume examines offshore safety regulation and management following the Piper Alpha disaster. It develops recommendations for installation Safety Cases, quantitative risk assessment, permit-to-work arrangements, integrated fire and explosion protection, and evacuation and rescue. Technical appendices examine process equipment, gas dispersion, explosion modelling and competing engineering evidence.
- 197820 Sep
Safety Alert 75 - Helicopter Crashes: 17 Fatalities
A helicopter lost lateral control during landing and its main rotor struck a crane cable before the aircraft fell from the platform into water, killing 17 people. The alert describes wind conditions and landing obstructions, and sets out crane positioning and restrictions on crane activity during helicopter operations.
- Undated
Nitrogen Cylinder Explosion During Refilling aboard FPSO
BSEE investigates a nitrogen cylinder explosion during refilling aboard the BW Pioneer FPSO. Misidentification of the cylinder’s pressure rating and an incorrectly rated relief device resulted in over-pressurisation. The report examines booster pumping, metallurgical failure analysis, inadequate training and procedures, equipment damage and injuries to a nearby worker during helicopter refuelling.
- Undated
Helicopter Tail Rotor Struck Rig During Landing Manoeuvre
Investigates a helicopter landing accident at Platform Irene in which the tail rotor struck the rig during a hovering turn. The report attributes the accident to pilot error and examines early seatbelt release, evacuation, injuries and fuel spillage. Revised arrangements address rig-location information, pilot briefings and landing-position checks.
- Undated
Helicopter Slid from Heliport into Water During Start-Up
An investigation describes a helicopter sliding from the South Timbalier 127A heliport into the water during start-up as adverse weather approached. The pilot sustained lower-back injuries. The report identifies an unforeseen thunderstorm gust and failure to secure the aircraft and await better weather as probable causes, and records a crew-boat recovery request.
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Drilling Vessel Lost Riser and LMRP During Hurricane Ida
BSEE investigates the Noble Globetrotter II’s unsuccessful attempt to evade Hurricane Ida during temporary well abandonment. The report examines weather planning, evacuation timelines, crew-change delays and hydraulic torque wrench failures. It records riser and LMRP loss, oil pollution, vessel damage and a lost-time injury, identifying inadequate planning and delayed riser recovery as contributing factors.
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Helicopter Crash During Approach to Offshore Platform
Investigation of a Bell 206L1 helicopter crash during approach to South Pass 38 in the Gulf of Mexico. The pilot reported settling with power and insufficient altitude for recovery or flotation deployment. All occupants escaped, but one apparently drowned; survivors were rescued. The district made no recommendation.
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Engine failure and subsequent grounding of oil tanker Braer
Investigation of BRAER’s engine failure and grounding at Garths Ness, Shetland, on 5 January 1993. It examines seawater contamination of diesel fuel, loose spare pipes, machinery operation, navigation, helicopter evacuation and attempted towage. Recommendations address tank vent protection, emergency anchoring and towing arrangements. Pollution aftermath is excluded.
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Flooding, engine failure and grounding of refrigerated cargo vessel Green Lily with loss of 1 life during rescue
Investigation synopsis concerning Green Lily’s flooding, engine stoppage and subsequent grounding off Shetland in storm conditions. It describes unsuccessful engine restart and towage attempts, lifeboat and helicopter evacuation, and the loss of a helicopter winchman. Findings identify propulsion loss and contributory failures; recommendations address teamwork and successful emergency towing.
- Undated
Safe Weight Limit Explanatory Note Issue 1
Explains the proposed 124kg clothed weight limit for outbound offshore workers, linking it to rescue capacity, casualty handling and escape equipment constraints. Describes phased implementation, mobilisation checks and weight-dependent certification, alongside workforce impact estimates and support options. Return travel onshore is outside the restriction.
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Safety review of offshore public transport helicopter operations (Version 1, 20 February 2014; publisher status Current)
This review examines offshore helicopter transport supporting oil and gas operations, combining accident and occurrence analysis with documentary research, interviews and independent challenge. It assesses airworthiness, gearbox failures, maintenance, pilot performance, helideck standards and passenger survivability, setting out CAA actions and recommendations on training, flotation, underwater escape and operational restrictions.