Hughes 369D crash near South Malekula, Vanuatu

On August 28, 2011, at 1500 universal coordinated time, a Hughes 369D, Vanuatu registration YJ-HEL, collided with the ground after the attached long-line became entangled in the rotor system near Malekula, Vanuatu. The helicopter was operated by Vanuatu Helicopters under the pertinent civil regulations of Vanuatu. The pilot was fatally injured, and the two passengers received minor injuries. The helicopter was substantially damaged. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Vanuatu. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by the Government of Vanuatu. Further information pertaining to this accident may be obtained from: Civil Aviation Authority Vanuatu (CAAV) PMB 9068 Port Vila Vanuatu SW Pacific Tel: 678-23301 Fax: 678-23783