Summary
The pilot was mustering over sandstone which was laced with shallow gorges and gullies. After sensing a shudder and engine miss, the pilot elected to carry out an immediate precautionary landing and landed on an outcrop of rock. While still at high RPM, the pilot moved the pedals and cyclic control to ensure that the skids were on a firm footing and tightened the collective friction. However, shortly after he exited the aircraft to inspect the idling engine, the helicopter pitched rearwards and slid off the rock into the gorge.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198800726 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 14/08/1988 |
| Location | 16 km NNE Beswick |
| Report release date | 26/10/1988 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22 |
| Registration | VH-ONE |
| Serial number | 628 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | 16 km N Beswick NT |
| Destination | 16 km N Beswick NT |
| Damage | Substantial |