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A truck driver was involved in a costly accident when he crashed into a bridge while transporting a luxury helicopter in his truck. The impact caused significant damage to the aircraft and resulted in millions of dollars in losses.
In 2023, a truck driver in the United States caused millions of dollars in damage when he collided with a bridge while transporting a helicopter. The accident occurred in Louisiana and involved a Sikorsky S-92, a model used for civil and military transport.
The driver's mistake in the truck
The helicopter was being transported when the main rotor struck the bridge structure.
The impact ripped the unit from the rest of the aircraft, spraying hydraulic fluid across the area.
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Images shared on social media platform X show the helicopter stuck under the bridge, as well as another photo with the rotor completely separated.
Experts say damage of this magnitude could render the aircraft inoperable. This means the entire helicopter, valued at around $30 million, may have to be scrapped.
Despite the impact, there was no significant structural damage to the bridge. The truck driver was issued a ticket for careless operation.
Sikorsky S-92 – Technical characteristics of the helicopter
The Sikorsky S-92 is a medium-lift, twin-engine helicopter widely used for offshore transport, search and rescue, medical evacuation and operations governmental and military.
Developed by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, the model is derived from the UH-60 Black Hawk and incorporates significant improvements in performance, safety and operational capability. Below is a technical breakdown of the helicopter.
Dimensions and structure
- Total length: 20,88 meters
- Main rotor diameter: 17,17 meters
- Height: 4,72 meters
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 12.020 kg
- Empty weight: 7.030 kg
- Payload capacity: Approximately 4.990 kg
The S-92's fuselage is constructed of aluminum alloys and composite materials to ensure structural strength and weight reduction. Its design includes a four-blade main rotor made of composite materials for durability and reduced vibration, and an integrated tail rotor for stability and precise control.
Engine and performance
- Engines: 2 × General Electric CT7-8A turboshaft
- Unit power: 2.520 shp (1.880 kW) each
- Maximum speed: 306 km/h
- Cruising speed: 280 km/h
- Runtime: Approximately 1.000 km (without auxiliary tanks)
- Operational ceiling: 4.600 meters
- Climb reason: 8,5 m / s
GE CT7-8A engines provide high performance and reliability, enabling operations in harsh conditions such as marine environments and hard-to-reach regions.
The helicopter also has an efficient rotor system and components designed to optimize fuel consumption.
Internal capacity and configuration
- Crew: 2 pilots
- Passenger capacity: Up to 19 people, depending on configuration
- Internal load capacity: 4.500 kg
- Cabin: 6,1 meters long × 2 meters wide × 1,83 meters high
The spacious cabin can be configured for different missions, including VIP transport, medical evacuation with stretchers and life support equipment, or sea rescue with a high-capacity winch. The interior can be pressurized and air-conditioned for greater comfort and safety.
Security and avionics
The S-92 incorporates state-of-the-art systems to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Key features include:
- Active Vibration Control System (AVCS): Reduces vibrations to improve comfort and extend component life.
- Glass Cockpit: Digital panel with multifunctional screens and advanced navigation and control systems.
- 4-Axis Autopilot: Provides stability and reduces crew workload.
- Emergency Floatation System: Essential for emergency landings in maritime environments.
- Impact Protection: Energy absorbing seats and impact resistant fuel tank.
Additionally, the S-92 is certified for operations in icing conditions (FIKI – Flight Into Known Icing), making it suitable for operations in arctic regions or extreme climates.
Operational applications
The Sikorsky S-92 is used globally in a variety of roles, including:
- Offshore Transportation: Widely adopted by oil companies for transporting employees to offshore platforms.
- Search and Rescue (SAR): Operated by military and civilian forces for rescues on the high seas or in remote areas.
- Medical Evacuation: MEDEVAC configuration for transporting patients in critical conditions.
- Executive and Government Transportation: VIP and presidential versions, including the US Marine One.
