Summary
Circumstances:
The pilot, who had limited experience on the Bell 47, attempted to bring the aircraft to a quick stop at approximately 50 feet above ground level. During the manoeuvre, the cyclic control reached its forward stop. The pilot lowered the collective control in an attempt to recover the situation however his inexperience caused him to lose full control of the aircraft. The tail rotor struck the ground before the pilot was able to regain control. The subsequent landing was heavier than normal.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199000072 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 21/01/1990 |
| Location | 20 km west of Nicholson Station |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report release date | 28/02/1990 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Loss of control |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Bell Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | 47 |
| Registration | VH-SJA |
| Serial number | 7828 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Nicholson Station WA |
| Destination | Nicholson Station WA |
| Damage | Substantial |