Aviation safety investigations & reports
In-flight fire - Robinson R44 helicopter, VH-HBA, 80 km from McArthur River Mine Airport, NT, 12 September 2011
AO-2011-113

Summary
On 12 September 2011, a Robinson Helicopter Co. R44 Astro helicopter, registered VH-HBA, departed Heartbreak Hotel, Northern Territory, for a local scenic flight with one pilot and three passengers onboard.
The pilot conducted a thorough safety brief prior to departure. Shortly after takeoff, and at about 1,500 ft above ground level, the engine fire warning light illuminated. The pilot commenced a descent to carry out a precautionary landing. Shortly before touchdown the engine oil pressure light illuminated and the pilot observed a rapid loss of oil pressure.
After landing, the pilot observed flames originating from under the engine cowling at the rear of the helicopter. All three passengers evacuated the helicopter. The helicopter was subsequently destroyed due to fire.
An engineering inspection could not determine the cause of the fire.
This incident highlights the importance of thorough pre-flight
safety briefs. The brief assisted the passengers in being able to
exit the helicopter quickly. The pilot also commented that
emergency equipment stored under the seat was difficult to access
in a fire. Future consideration would be given to placing this
equipment in a more accessible location.
General details
Date: | 12 September 2011 | Investigation status: | Completed | ||
Time: | 0815 CST | Investigation level: | Short - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
Location (show map): | 80 km from McArthur River Mine Airport | ||||
State: | Northern Territory | Occurrence type: | Fire | ||
Release date: | 14 March 2012 | Occurrence class: | Operational | ||
Report status: | Final | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
Highest injury level: | None |
Aircraft details
Aircraft manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co | |
---|---|---|
Aircraft model | R44 | |
Aircraft registration | VH-HBA | |
Serial number | 696 | |
Type of operation | Charter | |
Sector | Helicopter | |
Damage to aircraft | Serious | |
Departure point | Cape Crawford, NT | |
Destination | Cape Crawford, NT |