Summary
The owner reported that the tail rotor of the helicopter came into contact with a small tree as the pilot was pushing some cattle into a yard. The helicopter then spun out of control to the ground, landing heavily on the left skid before rolling over. The pilot was able exit the helicopter without injury. The owner advised the helicopter was damaged beyond economical repair.
Post flight examination showed that one of the tail rotor blades had separated in flight when it came into contact with the tree.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199701565 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 15/05/1997 |
| Location | 28 km south-east of Armraynald (ALA) |
| State | Queensland |
| Report release date | 19/06/1997 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22 Beta |
| Registration | VH-LOT |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Armraynald QLD |
| Destination | Armraynald QLD |
| Damage | Substantial |