Collision with terrain involving a Bell 47G-3B1, VH-KHY, Bindoon, Western Australia, on 28 February 1993

199300338

Summary

The aircraft was conducting joy-flights near a Rock Festival. The pilot aborted a take-off attempt when it became clear to him that he would not obtain translational lift in time to clear trees at the end of the selected take-off area. He chose to air-taxi to a more suitable pad. To get to the pad, he had to air-taxi between two large trees. Whilst passing between the trees the pilot concentrated on rotor clearance and did not notice a wind gust which moved the aircraft towards the tree on the left. The main rotor hit a branch, forcing the pilot to take immediate recovery action. The aircraft landed heavily.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199300338
Occurrence date 28/02/1993
Location Bindoon
State Western Australia
Report release date 26/05/1993
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Collision with terrain, Hard landing
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Bell Helicopter Co
Model 47G-3B1
Registration VH-KHY
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Charter
Departure point Bindoon WA
Destination Bindoon WA
Damage Substantial