Unsecured Transport of Penguin Leads to Helicopter Crash in South Africa

An incident involving an unsecured penguin led to a helicopter crash shortly after take-off in South Africa, according to a report by the South African Civil Aviation Authority. While no injuries occurred, the event raises concerns over aviation safety procedures regarding cargo containment.

An unsecured penguin in a cardboard box has been identified as the cause of a helicopter crash that occurred shortly after take-off in South Africa, as stated in a recent report by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). The incident took place on January 19 after the helicopter departed from Bird Island, situated off the coast of the Eastern Cape.

According to the report, the penguin was resting in a cardboard box on the lap of a passenger when it slid off during ascent. This unexpected movement caused the pilot to lose control of the aircraft as the box knocked into the helicopter's controls. Although the aircraft crashed back to the ground shortly after take-off, there were no injuries reported among the pilot, passengers, or the penguin itself.

The incident highlights critical lapses in safety protocols, as the SACAA noted that the absence of secure containment for the penguin led to a "dangerous situation." The helicopter was conducting an aerial survey of the island when a specialist on board requested the transportation of a penguin back to Port Elizabeth, though reasons for this decision remain unclear.

The report revealed that the pilot had conducted a "risk assessment" but failed to account for the penguin's presence in the aircraft, which was against the guidelines outlined in the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 2011. At approximately 15 meters above ground, the cardboard box's movement all but disabled the cyclic pitch control lever, resulting in the aircraft rolling uncontrollably.

Due to the main rotor blades hitting the ground, the helicopter sustained significant damage upon crashing on its starboard side around 20 meters from where it lifted off. The aviation authority emphasized the need for complying with established safety protocols and conducting thorough evaluations of potential hazards during flight.

The report further stresses that the inadequacy of the containment for the penguin contributed directly to the mishap, underscoring the necessity for stricter adherence to aviation safety measures involving cargo and passenger safety.