Investigation number
198301294
Occurrence date
Location
11 km SW of Sydney Airport
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None
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.
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Bell Helicopter Co
Model
206
Registration
VH-AGL
Operation type
Aerial Work
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Hoxton Park NSW
Departure time
N/A
Destination
Hoxton Park NSW
Damage
Substantial