Preliminary Report: Helo crashes into offshore rig during landing attempt

Bell 206L-1, Venice, La., Jan. 16, 2003–At approximately 8:30 a.m. CST Bell 206L-1 N3194P, operated by Air Logistics, was destroyed when it crashed on an offshore platform approximately 14 nm northeast of Venice, La. One passenger was killed and the two remaining passengers and the commercial pilot were seriously injured. The helicoper was operating under Part 135 and was on a company flight plan. The flight had departed from Venice, La., at 8:16 a.m. and was attempting to land on the platform. VMC existed at the platform. The cause of the accident is under investigation.