The pilot of the helicopter which crashed at the Kiunga Aerodrome in Western Province this year was unaware that a longline was attached to the helicopter prior to take off.
According to the Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) preliminary report, the accident occurred on February 15th where the longline was attached to a net carrying three full 200L metal drums containing diesel fuel.
The preliminary report, however, falls short of stating whether this is the actual cause of the accident. However, it notes that investigations are ongoing.
On 15 February, 2017, at approximately 5pm the expatriate pilot of the Bell 407 helicopter, owned and operated by Niugini Helicopters, was commencing a normal translational-lift takeoff, to the south, across the aerodrome apron, and over the terminal buildings.
The flight was a charter operation carrying two passengers to a Digicel tower site, 20 nautical miles due south of Kiunga Aerodrome.
The pilot reported that when the helicopter was about 50 feet above ground level and at a speed between 30-40 knots, it suddenly jerked to the left, spiraled left, impacted the tarmac and was destroyed.
The pilot and both passenger sustained minor injuries.
A significant quantity of fuel spilled from one drum during the impact.
There was no major damage to aerodrome infrastructure.
The investigation has determined that the tail boom separated at the initial impact area on the tarmac. The fuselage came to rest against the railing around the light pole at the southern end of the tarmac, 35 metres from the point where initial impact marks were found, 105 metres from the helipad.
The final report into the accident is expected in two months time.