Tragedy struck on October 27, 2018, as a helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium in Leicester claimed the lives of prominent figures, including Thai billionaire Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, employees Nursara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare, Pilot Eric Swaffer, and his co-pilot Izabela Roza Lechowicz.
Investigative reports have revealed harrowing details of the crash, including a chilling statement made by the pilot moments before the accident.
A Heroic Pilot’s Desperate Struggle
As the Leonardo AW169 helicopter took off from the pitch, it reached an altitude of approximately 430 feet before plummeting to the ground, despite the pilot’s valiant efforts.
Pilot Eric Swaffer, a highly-experienced aviator, and his co-pilot, Izabela Roza Lechowicz, managed to execute emergency procedures efficiently, mitigating further catastrophe.
Swaffer’s quick thinking, such as adjusting the helicopter’s pitch angle, saved lives, but tragedy still struck as the aircraft collided with a concrete step, igniting a fatal fuel leak and subsequent fireball.
Fatal Moments and Lingering Tragedy
While one of the occupants is believed to have died upon impact, the others faced a grim fate of smoke inhalation as the inferno raged.
This disaster unfolded after the helicopter’s control system failed due to a fractured bearing in the tail rotor, which led to an uncontrollable sharp right turn.
The helicopter spun out of control, causing a shout of panic from those on board, to which Pilot Swaffer responded with a desperate admission of confusion.
Premier League Aftermath
The crash occurred approximately an hour after a Premier League match between Leicester City and West Ham United.
Investigative findings ruled out drone involvement and pilot error, emphasizing the systemic failure that led to this tragic event.
Root Causes and Safety Concerns
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) report identified maintenance deficiencies as one of the contributing factors.
Regulations did not mandate checks on used bearings against their original design, leading to the bearing’s deterioration.
While inspections were required only after 400 hours of use, the helicopter had flown for only 331 hours before the accident.
This lapse in oversight exposed critical flaws in the aviation safety framework.
Global Collaboration for Answers
Authorities from Canada, France, Italy, and the United States collaborated in the investigation due to the various components’ international origins.
The AAIB made eight safety recommendations to the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to address regulatory weaknesses in certifying helicopters and to enhance safety protocols.
Remembering Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha’s untimely death left a void in both the football community and the city of Leicester.
He was celebrated for his contributions to the club and the city, fostering a deep connection with fans.
A statue honoring his legacy now stands proudly at the King Power Stadium, a testament to the indelible mark he left.
Heartfelt Tributes
Tributes from fans and the community poured in after the tragedy. Many recalled Mr. Vichai’s hands-on approach, shaking hands with supporters and fostering a sense of unity within the club and the city.
His tragic passing left an enduring impact on the hearts of those who admired his contributions to Leicester City Football Club and the wider community.
Conclusion
The Leicester City helicopter crash remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of robust safety protocols in aviation.
This tragedy claimed lives, but it also sparked collaborative efforts to enhance aviation safety and pay tribute to a man whose legacy will forever be associated with the football club he loved.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn