Eurocopter AS350B3 crash near Asang, Sweden

A HeliScan AS Eurocopter AS350B3 (LN-OYH, Norwegian-registered) was conducting external-load logging operations north of Sundsvall. A ground refueller employed by the operator, on his own initiative, took hold of the cargo hook and attached a load without the pilot or loadmaster being aware. When the pilot adjusted height prior to landing, the refueller became caught in the cargo strap and was lifted 5-20 metres into the air before falling to the ground. He died from his injuries. The pilot was uninjured and the helicopter was undamaged. The SHK investigation found the cause was the refueller acting outside his assigned duties without the crew's knowledge. The pilot and loadmaster's actions to ensure safe operations were insufficient. An underlying cause was the employer's failure to achieve functioning group dynamics among the crew.