Investigation of aviation incident at Heggjabygda, Stad
On 23 March 2026 an Airbus AS 350, LN-OVB from Fjord Helikopter AS was tasked with transporting a composite mast to be installed along a power line near Heggjabygda. The mast was carried as an underslung load, with the strap securing the mast attached to the hook of the helicopter’s longline. After approximately 6.5 km of flight, the strap detached from the hook and the mast fell to the ground.
ON Linje AS was responsible for the installation work. This was the first day of the project in which ON Linje and Fjord Helikopter were cooperating. The mast weighed approximately 1,150 kg and was secured using a shackle and lifting strap. A technician from ON Linje attached the load to the hook of the longline.
Prior to the load becoming detached, the pilot experienced pendulum‑like swinging of the mast that was difficult to control. The mast fell to the ground, and no persons or property other than the mast itself were damaged. When the mast was located, the strap was intact and still attached to the mast. Fjord Helikopter removed the hook from the helicopter’s longline from service and sent it to the manufacturer for inspection.
Latest update: 01.06.2026
Facts
| Location | Heggjabygda, Stad municipality, Vestland county, Norway |
| Occurrence date | 23.03.2026 |
| Aircraft | Airbus Helicopter AS 350 B3 Ecureuil |
| Operator | Fjord Helikopter AS |
| Registration | LN-OVB |
| Meteorological conditions | VMC |
| County | Vestland |
| Type of occurrence | Incident |
| Type of operation | Commercial, other |
| Category of operation | Light, helicopter (<= 2 250kg) |
| Aircraft category | Helicopter, Single-engine |