Summary
Whilst on cruise at 1000 feet agl, the helicopter experienced a sudden loss of power. The pilot carried out an autorotative landing on river mud flats. During the landing the tail rotor struck the water. The transmission of the helicopter failed after the disintegration of the planetary gears which was caused by fatigue cracking. Fatigue cracks were found in several sections of the remaining gear fragments and it was not possible to determine the exact origin of the final failure.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198301294 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 17/05/1983 |
| Location | 11 km SW of Sydney Airport |
| Report release date | 19/04/1984 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Bell Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | 206 |
| Registration | VH-AGL |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Hoxton Park NSW |
| Destination | Hoxton Park NSW |
| Damage | Substantial |