Summary
Circumstances:
There was a strong easterly wind blowing when the pilot landed. After landing he left the main rotor drive engaged and did not secure the collective control with the latch that was provided for that purpose. A sudden gust of wind caused the collective pitch, on the main rotor blades, to increase and the aircraft lifted off. The pilot regained control of the helicopter, but he was unable to avoid colliding with a tree.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199000086 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 11/05/1990 |
| Location | 60 km west of Moola Bulla Station |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report release date | 03/07/1990 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22B |
| Registration | VH-LDE |
| Serial number | 1283 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Private |
| Departure point | Moola Bulla Station WA |
| Destination | Moola Bulla Station WA |
| Damage | Substantial |