Accident to the Schweizer 269C-1 registered F-HAGO on 12/01/2021 at Bastelica (Corse-du-Sud)

Cat. 2 investigation report: simplified-format report, adapted to the circumstances of the occurrence and the investigation stakes.

The pilot was heading towards the Bocca della Calle pass, with a tailwind component. As he approached the pass at a low altitude, the aerological conditions may have caused the decrease in main rotor speed that the pilot mentioned, and therefore the loss of altitude. The pilot managed to cross the pass, but found himself downwind of the terrain, which accentuated the loss of altitude due to downdrafts. At that moment, the pilot did not have enough power reserve to counter this effect. As a result, he had no choice but to make a forced landing facing down the slope, managing the helicopter’s downward path as best as he could. The lack of skis on the skids, designed for soft ground landings, caused the helicopter to tip on landing on the snow-covered surface.
The ELT activated during the accident. As they had no mobile network coverage and did not know whether the ELT signal had been received or not, the occupants decided to leave the wreckage to reach the nearest ski resort, without activating or carrying their personal locator beacon. After walking approximately two hours in the snow wearing inadequate clothing, they managed to telephone the emergency services at the top of a ridge, and communicated their position. In the meantime, the emergency services had been sent out upon receiving the ELT signal. Nevertheless, the Corsica PGHM helicopter had difficulties locating the wreckage due to positioning uncertainties linked to this type of transmitter, not provided with a GNSS receiver.