Although official confirmation of the circumstances are hard to come by, photos have been circulating that show an apparent tail boom structural failure of an Augusta Westland 139. The aircraft was operated by Gulf Helicopters, a Qatar-based company that has more than 20 helicopters, including four AW139s. According to the forums, the failure occurred while the helicopter was taxiing in preparation for takeoff from Dohar, Qatar. Presumably the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority is investigating but there’s no mention of it on their Web site.
Tail Boom Separates From AW139
Key Takeaways:
- An AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter, operated by Gulf Helicopters, experienced an apparent tail boom structural failure.
- The incident, confirmed by circulating photos, occurred while the aircraft was taxiing for takeoff in Dohar, Qatar.
- Although a Qatar Civil Aviation Authority investigation is presumed, official details are not yet available on their website.
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