How a penguin passenger triggered Eastern Cape helicopter crash

An 'unsecured' penguin in a cardboard box on a passenger's lap was the cause of a helicopter crash off the coast of Gqeberha, according to a report released after an investigation into the incident.

The chopper crashed onto Bird Island on 19 January after being used to conduct an aerial survey.

It was carrying the pilot, three passengers, and the penguin.

A recently released report by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) said the aircraft landed safely after the survey was completed, when the specialist on board requested that they transport a penguin on the return flight to Chief Dawid Stuurman Aerodrome on the mainland.

When the pilot conducted a risk assessment of the flight he omitted to include the transportation of the penguin, said SACAA.

After take-off, about 15 metres above the ground, the box the penguin was in slid off the passenger's lap and onto a pilot control - the cyclic pitch control lever.

"The helicopter rolled to the right and the pilot could not recover timeously. Subsequently, the main rotor blades struck the ground."

South African Civil Aviation Authority

None of the occupants were injured, and the penguin was unharmed.\

The helicopter sustained substantial damage. 

The lack of secure containment for the animal in a proper crate created a dangerous situation, SACAA said.

"Proper cargo handling is crucial to ensure that items on-board do not interfere with flight controls or the safety of the passengers. This accident emphasises the importance of adhering to established safety protocols and compliance with aviation safety procedures."

South African Civil Aviation Authority