Investigation number
198800726
Occurrence date
Location
16 km NNE Beswick
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None
The pilot was mustering over sandstone which was laced with shallow gorges and gullies. After sensing a shudder and engine miss, the pilot elected to carry out an immediate precautionary landing and landed on an outcrop of rock. While still at high RPM, the pilot moved the pedals and cyclic control to ensure that the skids were on a firm footing and tightened the collective friction. However, shortly after he exited the aircraft to inspect the idling engine, the helicopter pitched rearwards and slid off the rock into the gorge.
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R22
Registration
VH-ONE
Serial number
628
Operation type
Aerial Work
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
16 km N Beswick NT
Departure time
0745
Destination
16 km N Beswick NT
Damage
Substantial