Summary
The helicopter flew through a flock of birds. The pilot felt and saw a number of birds strike the main rotor and also saw bird remains travel rearwards after this main rotor contact. After a short time of further flight with no apparent problems, the pilot heard a "bang" from the rear of the aircraft. He saw that the rear of the aircraft was vibrating so elected to land immediately. During the landing, the tail rotor contacted the ground.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199302814 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 28/08/1993 |
| Location | 15 km east of Leopold Station |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report release date | 30/10/1993 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Birdstrike |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Hughes Helicopters |
|---|---|
| Model | 269C |
| Registration | VH-ACD |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Departure point | 12km E Leopold Station WA |
| Destination | 12km E Leopold Station WA |
| Damage | Substantial |