Bell Helicopter 47G-3B1, VH-BHE, Kumarina, WA, 9 August 1969

196904742

Summary

The helicopter was being ferried from Perth to Mount Newman by two pilots who were taking turns as pilot -in -command. After an overnight stay at Meekatharra the flight was resumed and a headwind of 12-15 knots was encountered. At Kumarina the aircraft was refuelled from drums carried in the aircraft and, in an effort to minimise the headwind component, the pilot flew at an extremely low height, following part of the old Great Northern Highway. At a point where the old road Joins the new highway, the helicopter struck a steel bracing wire stretched across the highway between two telephone poles. The aircraft crashed to the roadway and was destroyed by Impact forces.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 196904742
Occurrence date 09/08/1969
Location Kumarina
Report release date 27/11/1969
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Wirestrike
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Serious

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Bell Helicopter Co
Model 47
Registration VH-BHE
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Kumarina
Destination Mount Newman
Damage Destroyed