Maintenance and Modifications
Turbine Fatigue Cited in Fatal California Helo Crash
Yesterday the NTSB released the finding of the cause of the May 24, 2008, Is

Yesterday the NTSB released the finding of the cause of the May 24, 2008, Island Express helicopter accident in Two Harbors, Avalon, on Catalina Island, in California. The Eurocopter AS350D collided with terrain while landing after a flight from the Queensway Bay Heliport, Long Beach, Calif. The commercial pilot, a company employee, and one passenger were killed and three passengers were seriously injured. The helicopter was destroyed by impact damage and fire.

Witnesses reported that the helicopter was approaching the island about 300 feet above the surface. Several witnesses heard a “pop” sound and then saw flames emitting from the back of the engine. The helicopter then entered a descent and hit the ground.