Lessons Learned: Elgin Oil Platform, Rotor Blades Failure
The rotor blades of a helicopter failed during a strong storm on the Elgin Oil Platform in the North Sea, according to an AAIB investigation update.
The serious incident involving the rotor blades of an EC175 B on the Elgin Oil Platform in the North Sea took place on February 17, 2023. The investigation by Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) also describes an unserviceable rotor brake on the helicopter while in strong winds.
The helicopter had shut down on the Elgin Oil Platform due to a technical fault, but a problem with the rotor brake meant the rotor blades continued to rotate slowly, preventing the application of the rotor blade tie downs. The platform was in the path of Storm Otto, with associated high winds resulting in four of the five main rotor blades breaking off the helicopter. No one was injured.
The AAIB investigation has focused on the cause of the rotor brake failure and the breaking of the rotor blades. It has also looked into operational factors, including weather reporting. The investigation has identified issues with the flight recorder on the helicopter and is working with the helicopter and recorder manufacturers to rectify this.
Content and image credit: AAIB, “Anniversary Statement: EC175 B, G-MCSH,” published February 17, 2025.
