Summary
The helicopter was being used for feral animal culling with the pilot and a shooter on board. Weather conditions at the time were hot, and the helicopter was operating close to its maximum all up weight. While flying downwind the helicopter began to sink and the pilot overpitched the main rotor system while attempting to recover. The resultant loss of rotor RPM caused the helicopter to descend rapidly and strike a tree. Both occupants escaped with minor injuries, but the helicopter was destroyed.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199303691 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 09/11/1993 |
| Location | 28 km north-west of Limbunya |
| State | Northern Territory |
| Report release date | 14/06/1994 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Minor |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22 Beta |
| Registration | VH-AOW |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Limbunya NT |
| Destination | Limbunya NT |
| Damage | Destroyed |