Black Hawk lands safely
Black Hawk lands safely after declaring ‘MAYDAY’ in East Timor
An International Stabilisation Force (ISF) S70 Black Hawk helicopter which experienced technical problems during a routine training exercise yesterday landed safely at Liquica in East Timor.
On experiencing a rotor overspeed problem, the flight crew declared a MAYDAY, which they subsequently downgraded to a PAN, for a landing at Comoro airport in East Timor. Declaring a PAN means that the aircrew were concerned with the situation, but were not in immediate danger.
Both the ISF Emergency Response Service (ERS) and Comoro Airport emergency service staff responded to assist the aircraft on its landing.
The crew landed safely at Comoro and cancelled the PAN.
As a result of the incident, the engine of the S70 Black Hawk is currently undergoing full inspection.
No members of the ISF or members of the East Timor community were injured during this incident.
The ISF continues to provide an aircraft response capability for the United Nations and the Government of Timor-Leste.
ENDS