Summary
The pilot had landed the helicopter in a clearing in order to refuel from drums carried in the aircraft. During the subsequent take-off into the strong wind prevailing, downdraft was experienced as the aircraft approached a heavily timbered area. A turn was carried out to avoid the trees but the combined effects of the downdraft and the downwind turn resulted in the helicopter touching down heavily. The impact forced the landing skids rearwards, bending the associated vertical support members.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198503503 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 13/03/1985 |
| Location | 146 km NE of Charleville |
| Report release date | 15/05/1985 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Hard landing |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Hiller Aviation |
|---|---|
| Model | UH-12 |
| Registration | VH-FFT |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | 146 km NE of Charleville |
| Destination | Boxland Station QLD (120 km NW of Roma QLD) |
| Damage | Substantial |