Aviation safety investigations & reports
Robinson R22-Beta, VH-JNT, Coolangatta Aerodrome QLD, 16 July 1990
Investigation number:
199003085
199003085
Status: Completed

Summary
The student helicopter pilot was at an early stage of his training, however, he was a very experienced fixed-wing pilot. Before conducting some circuits he was given practice in hovering. After this the instructor took over to demonstrate the manoeuvrability of the helicopter with the rotor disc steady. During this hovering the height increased to about 30 feet before the aircraft began to spin rapidly in an anti-clockwise direction and dive towards the ground. The low rotor rpm warnings sounded during the descent. Impact evidence showed that the helicopter had struck the ground at a high rate of descent while travelling forward slowly. No signs of engine malfunction were found.
General details
Date: | 16 July 1990 | Investigation status: | Completed | ||
Time: | 1706 | ||||
Location: | Coolangatta Aerodrome | ||||
State: | Queensland | Occurrence type: | Loss of control | ||
Release date: | 12 February 1991 | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
Report status: | Final | Highest injury level: | Serious |
Aircraft details
Aircraft manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co | |
---|---|---|
Aircraft model | R22 | |
Aircraft registration | VH-JNT | |
Serial number | 1108 | |
Type of operation | Flying Training | |
Sector | Helicopter | |
Damage to aircraft | Substantial | |
Departure point | Coolangatta QLD | |
Departure time | 1640 | |
Destination | Coolangatta QLD |