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Family Files $2.6B Lawsuit Over 2018 AW169 Fatal Crash

Manufacturer asserts it complied with all EASA design requirements.

Mark Phelps
Verified
Edited By: Travis Tingle
The Leonardo AW169 accident helicopter was similar to the one shown here. [Credit: Leonardo Helicopters]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The family of Thai billionaire Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha is suing helicopter manufacturer Leonardo for $2.6 billion over the fatal October 2018 crash of an AW169.
  • The lawsuit alleges "multiple failures in Leonardo’s design process," specifically the failure of a bearing in the tail rotor control system, caused the helicopter crash.
  • While the UK Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) concluded the tail rotor bearing seized due to "rolling contact fatigue," Leonardo argues the report clears them of fault, stating they complied with all regulatory requirements and no recommended actions were directed to them.
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The family of Thai billionaire Khun Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha is suing helicopter manufacturer Leonardo for $2.6 billion.

The family alleges “multiple failures in Leonardo’s design process” led to the October 2018 crash of an AW169 shortly after takeoff from the soccer stadium in Leicester, England. All on board, including Srivaddhanaprabha, who was the chairman of the Leicester City Football Club, died in the fiery crash.

Mark Phelps

Mark Phelps is a senior editor at AVweb. He is an instrument rated private pilot and former owner of a Grumman American AA1B and a V-tail Bonanza.

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