Investigation Summary
The accident aircraft, a Sikorsky S-55B originally built in 1954 for the United States Army, had a varied service history, including being operated by Orlando Helicopter Airways from 1971 until its sale to the Icelandic operator Þyrluflug hf. on 1 January 1975. The pilot, Lúðvík Karlsson, was a prominent figure in Icelandic aviation. During the flight through Hvalfjörður, a region known for powerful and unpredictable wind gusts, the helicopter encountered conditions that exceeded its aerodynamic capabilities. The investigation highlighted that while the aircraft was likely operating above its maximum weight limit, the primary factor was the localized wind turbulence at Hjarðarnes. The impact was non-survivable for the two crew members and five passengers. This event remains the deadliest helicopter accident in the history of Icelandic aviation.
Final Conclusions
The crash was caused by adverse wind conditions at Hjarðarnes. The investigative committee noted the aircraft was likely overloaded, but ruled this was not the primary cause as the wind conditions were sufficient to cause the crash of a correctly loaded aircraft. This ruling was upheld by the Supreme Court of Iceland in 1983.
Video Analysis
No video analysis linked for this case file yet.
Systems & Failure Modes
Sikorsky S-55B Airframe
A transport helicopter design from the 1950s, originally used by the military, which was susceptible to severe turbulence when operating near its performance limits.
Interesting Facts
- 01It is the deadliest helicopter crash in Icelandic aviation history.
- 02The aircraft was a former U.S. Army Sikorsky S-55B built in 1954.
- 03The pilot, Lúðvík Karlsson, was a well known aviation pioneer in Iceland.
- 04The second crew member was the director of the operating company, Þyrluflug hf.
- 05The passengers were all employees of RARIK, the Icelandic State Electricity company.