SA 365 Dauphin 2
Flight Crew Commercial
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 40; Flight Crew Total 6000; Flight Crew Type 5100
Communication Breakdown
Conflict NMAC
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Airspace Structure; Human Factors
I departed the Medical Center to the northwest. Approximately one minute into the flight while climbing to 2;000 MSL; I got a TCAS alert of traffic at 9 o'clock less than a mile. The Flight Medic who was setting in the co-pilot seat (left seat) saw a helicopter converging with us and announced 'Dive'. I immediately lowered the collective. Due to the airframe and position of the other aircraft; I could not see the traffic. Once the other helicopter crossed over top of us; I saw what appeared to be an EC135 through the overhead window. They crossed over the top of us by approximately 300 FT. Due to heavy radio traffic with ATC; I was not in contact with Approach yet for traffic advisories.I was monitoring CTAF for the Medical Center for approximately five minutes prior to takeoff. I did not hear the other aircraft although I did hear at least two other aircraft in the immediate area. I made a radio call announcing my departure from the Medical Center westbound on CTAF.
An SA365 departing a medical center and suffered an NMAC with an inbound EC135. Failure to employ the local CTAF frequency may have been a factor.