Korean media is reporting that the cause behind an Army Heron reconnaissance drone crashing into a helicopter last month has been determined to be weather-related.
The crash occurred on March 17 when the drone veered right while landing and collided with a Surion utility helicopter parked on the runway, resulting in a fire that destroyed both aircraft.
Military officials said a gust of wind caused the drone to “experience an unexpected updraft during an emergency automatic landing”. A second gust of wind and crosswinds further exacerbated the situation.
The South Korean Army’s Central Accident Investigation Committee reviewed flight recordings, CCTV footage and other data to reach its conclusion. The committee found no evidence of human error, equipment malfunction, maintenance failure or mismanagement.
The Army owns two other Heron drones. One of which was reported to be the victim of a jamming attack from North Korea and the other has been grounded for maintenance reasons.
Korea JoongAng Daily reports that the Army plans to install ground-level wind shear alert systems at the affected battalion to prevent a repeat of the incident. The daily adds that authorities also intend to install safety nets to stop drones from entering helicopter parking areas at military airfields.
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Image: Segye Korean language news organisation
