Canada and the UK have suspended all but life-saving operations involving their AgustaWestland-built EH101 helicopters, in the wake of the 30 March crash which destroyed a Royal Navy Merlin HM1 anti-submarine warfare aircraft (Flight International, 6-12 April). Imposed on 5 April, the UK's training restrictions also apply to its Royal Air Force-operated Merlin HC3 utility transports. Additional EH101 operators Italy and Japan have not restricted flights.
The UK Ministry of Defence has yet to determine the exact cause of the accident, but it is known to have centred on a catastrophic failure to the aircraft's tailrotor assembly. The Canadian Department of Defense, which on 1 April restricted operations of its CH-149 Cormorant (EH101)helicopters to search and rescue duties, has indicated that a malfunction to the aircraft's tailrotor half hub assembly was to blame. It is not yet known whether the accident was the result of a failed component, incorrect maintenance or a design fault, says AgustaWestland.
The impact of the UK accident could prove damaging to the Lockheed Martin-led team which is promoting the enhanced US101 design to meet the US Navy's VXX requirement for a new presidential transport helicopter fleet. The navy is expected to announce its selection of the US101 or Sikorsky's rival VH-92 late this year, having recently slipped a decision from mid-2004.
Source: Flight International
