Summary
Circumstances:
The aircraft was one of two being used to muster a large paddock and was being operated by an experienced mustering pilot with a trainee mustering pilot on board. At the completion of the paddock muster, the aircraft was carrying out yard up operations which required manoeuvres at low altitudes. Whilst chasing a breakaway beast, the pilot turned tightly, and a main rotor blade contacted the ground. The aircraft tumbled forward and came to rest on its side. It is probable that the pilot was concentrating his attention on the escaping beast and did not pay sufficient attention to flying his aircraft.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198900241 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 31/07/1989 |
| Location | Larry's Lake 37 km north-east of Victoria River Downs |
| State | Northern Territory |
| Report release date | 28/02/1990 |
| 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 | Bell Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | 47 |
| Registration | VH-CSJ |
| Serial number | 2653 |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Larry's Lake NT |
| Destination | Larry's Lake NT |
| Damage | Substantial |