SE-HVI

Information

This helicopter was constructed in 1990 and came to Sweden-based Fiskflyg AB in December the same year. It has been operating with the company ever since. It was repainted from its original white-blue-red livery to a deep blue color in the winter of 2004-2005.

Accident
SE-HVI was damaged in an accident on August 14 2011. It was engaged in a water-bombing mission at the Aitik copper mine in Gällivare in order to prevent dust from forming in the dry tailings pond. On lift-out after filling water in a nearby lake a suspension line belonging to the bucket got caught in the rear left skid, resulting in a dynamic rollover. The aircraft impacted a swampy part of the lake and ended up resting on its side. The sole person on board, a highly experienced pilot, escaped with minor injuries. The helicopter was salvaged by SE-HJP.

Returning to service
The aircraft was sent to Alpine Aerotech in Canada for the repair work. The helicopter was upgraded from an L-3 version to a Bell 206L-4(L3+) during the winter and spring of 2012. It was also fitted with a right-hand sliding door during the makeover. SE-HVI made its first flight on June 20 2012 and it returned to service in Sweden in July 2012, less than a year after the accident.

SE-HVI was accompanied by a second Long Ranger, SE-HVJ, in mid 2013.