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Multiple Injuries in North Sea Helicopter Accident

Breaking News: Helicopter Crash on North Sea Oil Rig Near Scotland Under Investigation

Aberdeen, Scotland | March 24, 2025

A severe helicopter incident occurred earlier today on the Caledonian Horizon oil rig, located in the North Sea approximately 120 miles northeast of Aberdeen, resulting in multiple injuries and sparking an urgent safety investigation. The aircraft, transporting crew members to shore, reportedly experienced a critical instrument malfunction moments after takeoff, leading to a crash onto the rig before plunging into the frigid waters below.

Incident Details

The crash took place at approximately 10:30 AM GMT during routine crew rotation. Witnesses described the helicopter struggling to stabilize altitude shortly after liftoff. “It veered sharply, clipped the rig’s helipad, and rolled into the sea,” said rig worker Fiona Grant, who observed the incident. Emergency response teams, including HM Coastguard and rescue helicopters, were deployed within minutes.

Six individuals were injured in the crash:

Mr. Michael, 65, a Trauma Surgeon, sustained critical injuries, including multiple fractures and head trauma. He remains unconscious and is being treated at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.

The pilot, Captain Emily Hartley, 42, was pulled from the submerged aircraft unconscious and is in stable but serious condition.

Four other rig workers suffered minor injuries, including hypothermia from exposure to the 8°C waters. All are expected to recover.

Ongoing Investigation

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has taken lead on the inquiry, with support from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Preliminary reports suggest a potential avionics system failure, though investigators stress it is too early to confirm a cause. The helicopter, identified as a Sikorsky S-92—a model widely used in North Sea operations—will undergo forensic analysis.

The incident has reignited debates about offshore transport safety. In 2022, the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority mandated stricter maintenance checks for S-92 helicopters following a near-identical malfunction in Norwegian waters.

Community and Industry Response

Britannia Energy, the rig’s operator, released a statement: “Our deepest sympathies are with the injured and their families. We are fully cooperating with authorities to determine how this tragedy occurred.”

Local officials, including Scottish Energy Minister Gillian Mackay, called for immediate action: “This underscores the perilous nature of offshore work. We demand a comprehensive review of helicopter safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.”

Aberdeen Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre confirmed that all rig operations have been suspended pending the investigation.

Environmental and Operational Concerns

While no oil spills were reported, environmental groups have raised alarms about the proximity of the crash to protected marine zones. “This is a stark reminder of the risks posed by fossil fuel extraction in fragile ecosystems,” said Greenpeace UK.

What’s Next?

The AAIB will recover the helicopter’s black box for analysis, with initial findings expected within 72 hours. Meanwhile, unions representing offshore workers are demanding emergency talks with energy firms to address safety grievances.

Updates on the injured crew members and the investigation will follow as details emerge.