Rejected take-off involving a Robinson R22, VH-HBC, 15 km north-east of Hodgson River, Northern Territory, on 4 March 1994

After landing the helicopter in a confined area the pilot had some reservations about its ability to climb over adjacent trees. He identified an area that appeared suitable for a run-on landing in the event of the need to reject the take-off.

After commencing the take-off, the pilot realised that there was insufficient power available to clear the trees and manoeuvred the helicopter for a run-on landing in the area he had previously identified.

During the ground run, just before the helicopter came to a stop, the ground gave way into an underground cavity. The helicopter pitched forward, and the main rotor struck the ground.