Crash probe starts

THE PNG Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) has commenced investigations into a helicopter accident that occurred on Saturday in Jiwaka, chief commissioner Hubert Namani says.
Namani said the helicopter, operated by Hevilift Aviation Ltd, took-off from Gobo in Jiwaka to Western Highlands when the accident occurred at about 11.30am.
According to the commission, two flight crew, one flight engineer and one load master were aboard the chopper.
Reportedly, one of the occupants suffered minor injuries and the rest were uninjured.
The helicopter was destroyed.
“Reportedly, after vertical take-off to hover, there was a low rotor revolutions per minute indication, causing the flight crew to bring the helicopter back to the ground,” Namani explained.
“Upon contact with the ground, there would have been a loss of control of the helicopter, which subsequently rolled over, impacting its tail boom and main rotor blades with the ground.
“The helicopter came to rest in an upside-down position.
“The AIC became aware of the accident less than one hour after it occurred and immediately commenced an investigation.
“As part of AIC initial investigation activities, a team of investigators has been dispatched to the accident site to perform on-site technical examinations and information gathering.
“Further stages of the investigation will include the collection of evidence and analysis of information in areas related to flight operations, human performance, aircraft maintenance, environmental conditions, organisational aspects and other areas.”