Unsecured Penguin Causes Helicopter Crash in South Africa, Report Confirms
A recent investigation by the South African Civil Aviation Authority has revealed that an unsecured penguin in a cardboard box was the unexpected cause of a helicopter crash on Bird Island earlier this year.
Flight Disrupted by Slipping Box
According to a report seen by BBC News, the incident occurred on 19 January as a helicopter was departing Bird Island following an aerial survey.
A specialist on board had requested the transport of a penguin back to Port Elizabeth. The penguin was placed inside a cardboard box and held on the lap of a passenger.
However, shortly after take-off, the box slid off the lap and struck the cyclic pitch control lever, causing the helicopter to veer uncontrollably. Within seconds, the aircraft crashed approximately 20 metres from the point of lift-off.
No Injuries Reported—Penguin Also Survives
Despite the crash, all onboard—including the pilot, the passenger, and the penguin—escaped without injuries. The helicopter, however, sustained significant damage after its main rotor blades hit the ground and it landed on its starboard side.
Authorities Cite Lack of Risk Assessment
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) found that while the pilot did conduct a general risk assessment before take-off, the penguin’s presence was not considered, nor was its method of containment in line with Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 2011.
The report emphasized that the lack of a proper crate or secure containment directly led to the “dangerous situation” and stressed the need for strict compliance with aviation safety protocols—especially when transporting live animals.
Call for Stricter Wildlife Transport Protocols
The SACAA concluded that “all situations should be subject to established safety protocols” and that even small oversights—such as unsecured live cargo—can have catastrophic consequences.
The motive for transporting the penguin was not disclosed in the report.