Eurocopter AS 350 B3 N297SH accident near Johnson River, Alaska

Probable cause

The ground crew’s failure to remain clear of a tag line during sling load operations, resulting in his entanglement.

NTSB analysis

The operator reported that during a sling load operation, one of the ground crew became entangled in a tag line as the helicopter began to lift the load. He was dragged across the deck, freed himself, and subsequently fell to the ground. In the operators written statement, it was noted the ground crew member was initially hidden from the pilot’s view as he began to lift the sling load. The helicopter was not damaged, but the ground crew personnel sustained serious injuries. The operator reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC23LA085 for the full record.