Summary
Circumstances:
As the aircraft was making an approach into a confined area, it was struck by a local wind condition known as "willy willy". The aircraft began to rotate in a clockwise direction, and the pilot was unable to obtain a response from any of the controls. The aircraft touched down heavily, causing damage to the right hand skid and the tail rotor.
Significant Factors:
The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident:
- The pilot lost control of the helicopter when it was affected by a "willy willy".
- The aircraft collided with the ground before the pilot was able to regain control.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198900250 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 08/10/1989 |
| Location | Sandstone |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report release date | 24/01/1990 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Loss of control |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Hiller Aviation |
|---|---|
| Model | UH-12 |
| Registration | VH-FBX |
| Serial number | 5105 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Charter |
| Departure point | Sandstone WA |
| Destination | Sandstone WA |
| Damage | Substantial |