Summary
The pilot reported that during a steep approach to the landing area at Turtle Cove Resort, he heard a loud bang at approximately 250 feet followed by airframe vibration. A precautionary landing was made on the beach. Inspection of the aircraft revealed damage to two rotor blades, and after speaking to witnesses he realised that he had struck a power line.
The pilot said he had landed at the resort before but had not approached from this direction. He believed he had passed over the wires, but they were closer to the resort than he had anticipated. The pilot was not injured.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199503696 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 06/11/1995 |
| Location | Turtle Cove |
| State | Queensland |
| Report release date | 04/09/1996 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Wirestrike |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Hughes Helicopters |
|---|---|
| Model | 369E |
| Registration | VH-HWL |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | General Aviation |
| Departure point | Cairns QLD |
| Destination | Turtle Cove QLD |
| Damage | Substantial |