Serious incident to the Airbus AS350-B3 registered F-HJSC on 22/07/2020 5 NM north-east of Nîmes Garons (Gard)

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

During the descent with a view to joining the airport circuit, the pilot detected a lone bird of prey but was unable to take action to avoid the strike. The bird of prey struck the canopy and penetrated the cockpit. Shards from the canopy injured the head of the front passenger. Air flowing into the cabin lifted up the light objects inside. The pilot assessed the flight qualities of the helicopter and decided to continue to the planned destination. He then reassured the injured passenger whilst optimising his path to ensure the passenger could receive help from the emergency services on the ground as quickly as possible.