The Government Flying Service has grounded all three of its Super Puma Mk II helicopters after engine failure forced one to make an emergency landing in the Shing Mun Reservoir yesterday.
The helicopter was taking water from the reservoir to douse a nearby hill fire in Tai Mo Shan when the incident happened at 10.30am.
Michael Chan Chi-pui, the GFS controller, said the helicopter's No2 engine suddenly failed and the craft had to land quickly.
'It was a job well done,' Chan said, praising the crew for their quick reactions. 'All of the crew members are safe.'
He said the cause of the failure was yet to be determined and for safety reasons the other two Super Puma Mk II helicopters would also be grounded.
The helicopter landed not far from the shore and was kept afloat by inflatable pads. All three crewmembers climbed out by themselves and swam ashore before firefighters arrived at the scene. They were in good condition and were taken to Yan Chai hospital for check-ups.
Hiker Samson Lai Sai-ho saw the helicopter as it landed and his friend called the police. 'It took in some water and then wobbled a bit,' he said. 'After a few 'pak-pak'sounds, some bubbles came out.'
