THE AIR ACCIDENT Investigation Unit (AAIU) has said no mechanical anomalies have been identified in an initial analysis of flight recorders on the R116 Coast Guard helicopter that crashed over two weeks ago.

In a statement today, Chief Inspector of Air Accidents, Jurgen Whyte, and the appointed investigator-in-charge, Paul Farrell, said they were “keenly aware of the loss and grief of the families, friends and colleagues of the crew of R116″.

“The AAIU continues to work with other agencies to locate and recover the two missing crew members,” they said.

The AAIU is mindful that Sikorsky S-92A helicopters are in operation around the world in a variety of roles, including search and rescue. Following an event such as this, many operators and agencies are anxious to learn if any matters are identified during the ongoing investigation that may require immediate safety actions.

The Investigation is still at a preliminary stage. However, an initial analysis has been conducted of the data retrieved from the helicopter’s Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) and the Multi-Purpose Flight Recorder (MPFR). No mechanical anomalies have been identified during this initial analysis.

“The AAIU Investigation is ongoing and a Preliminary Report will be issued in the near future.”

An attempt to lift the wreckage of the helicopter had to be suspended today due to weather conditions. The remains of winch operator Paul Ormsby (53) and winchman Ciarán Smith (38) have not yet been located.