THE HAGUE - The Defense helicopter that crashed near Aruba last summer ran into problems after the aircraft came at the same speed with the wind while making a turn. Then a helicopter needs extra power to stay in the air.
The pilot of the helicopter deployed extra power, but due to the low altitude, it was no longer possible to stop the descent in time.
This was revealed on Wednesday from an exploratory investigation by the Dutch Safety Board (OVV).
The NH90 helicopter crashed on July 19 while on its way back to the naval vessel HNLMS. Groningen. There were four soldiers on board. A 34-year-old pilot and 33-year-old coordinator were unable to break free in time and were killed. The other two occupants were able to free themselves and were taken out of the water.
The investigation further shows that the crew of HNLMS Groningen “have shown great commitment to save their colleagues”. However, high waves and limited capacity and equipment on board made the operation more difficult.
The investigation must provide insight into the direct cause of the accident. The follow-up investigation into the possible underlying factors is carried out by the Defense Security Inspectorate (IVD).
For example, there are still questions about the underlying factors of the crash. For example, about the training of the crew and the choice to fly with one pilot per NH90 helicopter. It is also unclear why insufficient equipment was available on the Zr.Ms. Groningen.
In August, the OVV and the IVD already concluded in a preliminary conclusion that the fatal crash was not the result of a technical or mechanical failure.