Summary
The helicopter pilot was being examined by a Civil Aviation Authority Examiner of Airmen for a rappelling endorsement. The helicopter and crew were also involved in rappelling refresher training for police crewmen. While the helicopter was in a stable hover at 80 feet AGL over an obstacle free area and in ideal weather conditions, two trained crewmen rappelled from the helicopter. Both crewmen departed the helicopter simultaneously but the crewman on the right side misjudged the time for braking before ground contact and struck the ground heavily.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198801394 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 13/09/1988 |
| Location | Essendon |
| Report release date | 05/04/1989 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Miscellaneous - Other |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Serious |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Aerospatiale Industries |
|---|---|
| Model | SA365 |
| Registration | VH-PVF |
| Serial number | 5042 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Flying Training |
| Departure point | Essendon VIC |
| Destination | Essendon VIC |
| Damage | Nil |