Sikorsky S-76C++ crash near Morgan City, LA, United States

A PHI Inc Sikorsky S-76C++ (N748P) crashed into marshy terrain 12 miles southeast of Amelia, Louisiana, seven minutes after takeoff en route to the South Timbalier oil platform. While cruising at 850ft and 135 knots, the CVR recorded a loud bang followed by rushing wind. Both engines lost power and the main rotor RPM decayed rapidly. The helicopter departed controlled flight and crashed. Both pilots and six of seven passengers were killed; one passenger survived with critical injuries. The NTSB determined the probable cause was a bird strike that fractured the pilots windscreen, incapacitating the pilot who involuntarily reduced engine power. DNA testing confirmed hawk remains on the windscreen. The NTSB cited the lack of FAA regulations requiring bird-strike-resistant helicopter windshields as a contributing factor.