Summary
The pilot landed the helicopter in an easterly direction on a landing platform on the side of a hill. The helipad was at a drilling site in a rain forest area. As the wind was a light northerly, the pilot decided to reposition the helicopter by turning it to face into wind. As he manoeuvred the helicopter, he did not see an upright stick which contacted the spinning tail rotor.
Significant Factor
The following factor was considered relevant to the development of the accident:
1. The pilot did not to see an obstacle prior to manoeuvring the helicopter.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199303231 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 07/10/1993 |
| Location | Mount Jukes |
| State | Tasmania |
| Report release date | 26/10/1994 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Kawasaki Heavy Industries |
|---|---|
| Model | 47G3B-KH4 |
| Registration | VH-JWA |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Destination | Mount Jukes TAS |
| Damage | Substantial |