Preliminary Report: S-76 sinks near offshore platform

Sikorsky S-76A, Eugene Island, La., Oct. 22, 2006–The S-76 was repositioning to an offshore oil platform in VMC when it crashed into the water and sank. The crew encountered a cloud deck at 500 feet and visibility was hindered by rain. The ATP-rated pilot was not injured and the commercial first officer was slightly injured. The helicopter, operated by Petroleum Helicopters of Lafayette, La., was destroyed.