Sikorsky S-61N crash near Ireland

While conducting a routine winching training exercise on the Conningbeg Lightship, the hoist cable snagged, then sheared and recoiled under load back up towards the helicopter, where damage was inflicted to the main rotor blades and the cockpit canopy.  The helicopter recovered back to Waterford Airport (EIWF) without further incident.  The Winch Operator suffered a laceration injury to his hand.