Investigation number
199403829
Occurrence date
State
Northern Territory
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Collision with terrain
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Serious

The helicopter was being used for a controlled fire bombing and burning off operation. The pilot had been flying very slowly just above the tree tops, then after turning onto a southerly heading he believed the engine lost power, and was unable to prevent it from striking the tops of the trees. It then descended steeply into the ground, the pilot receiving severe back injuries, and the passenger a broken arm. An investigation of the helicopter and engine failed to find any fault, or malfunction, that may have caused the engine to lose power. Weather conditions were very hot with a light northerly wind blowing. The helicopters weight was calculated to be in excess of its maximum all up weight, with heavy items of equipment stored in the areas below the seats, contrary to the flight manual and placarded instructions. Being overweight for the operation, and turning downwind, ie to the south, the helicopter probably suffered a lose of translational lift with subsequent overpitching of the rotor system by the pilot, giving the impression that the engine had lost power. With no available height margin the pilot was unable to avoid flying into the trees.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R22 Beta
Registration
VH-JNL
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
South Aligator River NT
Destination
South Aligator River NT
Damage
Substantial