Investigation number
199401035
Occurrence date
State
Northern Territory
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Collision with terrain
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Minor

The pilot landed the helicopter in an open grassy area to refuel from jerry cans. He then decided to reposition the helicopter about 10 metres forward from the original landing point, and after the passenger alighted lifted the helicopter into the air and applied forward cyclic. It suddenly pitched forward sharply as if the front of the skids were caught, the main rotor blades striking the ground before the pilot could regain control. The landing area was covered with medium height stiff grass that may have fouled the skids as the helicopter became airborne.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R22 BETA
Registration
VH-XOX
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Cooinda NT
Destination
54km NW Bulman NT
Damage
Substantial