PETALING JAYA: A preliminary report by an investigation board established by the Royal Malaysian Navy has found that the two helicopters that collided and crashed at a naval base in Lumut last month were fit to fly.
Likewise, the crew members on board were confirmed healthy and able to operate the aircraft.
“Both aircraft were confirmed to be in airworthy condition (safe to fly) at the time of the incident,” the report said.
It added that maintenance works on both helicopters were carried out according to schedule as well as the procedures established by the relevant original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
“Weather conditions on the day of the incident were good and suitable for the flight,” it said.
However, while the HOM (M503-3) helicopter was equipped with a black box, the 21-year-old Fennec (M502-6) was not, it said.
“Data analysed from the HOM aircraft was received on May 3 from the OEM for the investigation board’s further review,” said the report.
The board said it would continue with its inquiry to identify the factors that contributed to the incident, including by analysing the flight profile using simulators and actual aircraft.
It will also seek assistance from the Fennec’s OEM, Airbus, for insight and data that could aid in the investigation.
The board is expected to complete its final report by May 29.
Comprising nine officers from the navy who are experts in aviation and aerospace engineering, the board is also assisted by the Air Force’s directorate general technical airworthiness and medical doctors.
The crash, which occurred on April 23 during a rehearsal for the navy’s 90th anniversary event, claimed the lives of all 10 crew members on board the helicopters.
