Aviation safety investigations & reports
Collision with terrain - Robinson R22 helicopter, VH-RTB, 62 km south Maningrida Airport, NT, 29 September 2011
Investigation number:
AO-2011-124
AO-2011-124
Status: Completed
Summary
On 29 September 2011, a Robinson Helicopter, R22 Beta II helicopter (R22), registered VH-RTB, was conducting aerial stock mustering operations about 43 km east-south-east of Maningrida, Northern Territory.
While guiding a herd of buffalo into the yarding area, at about 20 ft above ground level, the helicopter's tail rotor struck a tree. The helicopter landed heavily and sustained serious damage.
This accident not only highlights the challenging nature of
aerial stock mustering operations, but also the benefits of
utilising resources such as a ground support teams, when operating
within the yarding area.
General details
| Date: | 29 September 2011 | Investigation status: | Completed | ||
| Time: | 0950 CST | Investigation level: | Short - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
| Location (show map): | 62 km south Maningrida Airport | ||||
| State: | Northern Territory | Occurrence type: | Collision with terrain | ||
| Release date: | 12 December 2011 | Occurrence class: | Operational | ||
| Report status: | Final | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
| Highest injury level: | None |
Aircraft details
| Aircraft manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co | |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft model | R22 | |
| Aircraft registration | VH-RTB | |
| Serial number | 3990 | |
| Type of operation | Aerial Work | |
| Sector | Helicopter | |
| Damage to aircraft | Serious | |
| Departure point | Maningrida, NT |