Investigation number
198600700
Occurrence date
Location
5km West of Ban Ban Springs
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The helicopter was being operated at about 40 feet above ground level at an indicated airspeed of 45 knots, when the engine suddenly failed. During the subsequent landing attempt the main and tail rotors struck trees and the helicopter contacted the ground tail first, severing the tail skid and tail rotor blades. Inspection of the engine revealed that the carburettor air filter screen was blocked by dirt and the alternate air source door had been glued in the shut position.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Hughes Helicopters
Model
269
Registration
VH-ACD
Operation type
Aerial Work
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Ban Ban Springs NT
Departure time
1600
Destination
Ban Ban Springs NT
Damage
Substantial