On 23 June 2014, a Eurocopter Deutschland BO-105 helicopter, registration P2-NHW, was conducting village-to-village sling-load operations in mountainous terrain in Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea. While on approach to land at the remote village of Onggake, the helicopter’s number-one engine sustained a power loss that required the pilot to conduct a forced landing. There were no injuries. On-site examination of the helicopter revealed that significant internal damage had occurred to the compressor assembly from the number-one engine, a Rolls-Royce M250-C20B turboshaft.
The Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission (PNG AIC) commenced an investigation into the accident and subsequently, technical support was requested from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) in the examination of the compressor assembly. In providing this support, the ATSB commenced an external investigation under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
The initial disassembly and examination of the compressor was conducted at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra. The parts were subsequently sent to the engine manufacturer in the United States for detailed metallurgical examination. Reports from both the engine manufacturer and the ATSB were provided to the PNG-AIC to assist with the investigation.
The PNG Accident Investigation Commission is responsible for and will administer the release of the final investigation report into this accident.
Further information regarding the occurrence can be found at www.aic.gov.pg or specific enquiries should directed to infor@aic.gov.pg.