Investigation: AO-2014-021 - Controlled flight into terrain involving a Robinson R22, VH-LZR, 100 km E Mataranka Township (ALA), NT, on 10 February 2014

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Summary

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On 10 February 2014, at about 1500 Central Standard Time, the pilot of a Robinson R22 helicopter, registered VH-LZR, commenced take-off for a private local flight from a property about 100 km east of Mataranka, Northern Territory.

As the helicopter became airborne heading to the south-east, the pilot sighted an object moving to his right. At about 10 ft above ground level, the pilot was distracted looking outside the door at the object and the helicopter collided with a tree. The helicopter sustained substantial damage and the pilot was uninjured.

This incident shows that distractions can have a significant impact on flight safety.

Aviation Short Investigation Bulletin - Issue 28

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Photo

Download Figure 1: Damage to VH-LZR. Source: Owner.

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General details
Date:	10 February 2014	Investigation status:	Completed
Time:	1500 CST
Location (show map):	Mataranka Township (ALA), east 100 km (Flying Fox Station)	Investigation type:	Occurrence Investigation
State:	Northern Territory	Occurrence type:	CFIT
Release date:	27 March 2014	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-LZR
Serial number:	2629
Type of operation:	Private
Sector:	Helicopter
Damage to aircraft:	Substantial
Departure point:	Flying Fox Station, NT