India’s Air Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is probing the causes of an August 24 accident in which a Leonardo AW139 helicopter crashed during a ferry flight following maintenance work. Four crew members on board sustained injuries when the aircraft, which was operated by charter operator Global Vectra Helicorp, crashed close to Pune en route from Mumbai to Vijayawada in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh.
The AW139’s black box was retrieved from the scene of the accident, and the AAIB is liaising with the manufacturer to compile a report on the data recorded. The AAIB will report its findings to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
The twin-engined helicopter had been at the Mumbai-area Juhu Airport, where Global Vectra’s Part 145 maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility had conducted a C check.
Global Vectra is contracted by the state government to fly officials and VIPs. The company also operates charter flights for oil and gas companies, as well as for conducting aerial survey work and private transportation. In addition to three AW139s and three AW169s, its fleet includes a mix of Bell 412 and Airbus AS350 helicopters.