Investigation number
198602673
Occurrence date
Location
Scartwater Station (194 km South Townsville)
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Loss of control
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot was conducting cattle mustering operations. Weather conditions at the time were very hot, with a 10 to 15 knot wind. The pilot advised that while flying downwind at 30 knots and 80 feet above the ground, he commenced a pedal turn to the right. After some 90 degrees the turn suddenly stopped and the aircraft sank rapidly to about 35 feet above the ground. The main and tail rotors struck trees, but the pilot was able to maintain control and fly the helicopter to a clear area, where a safe landing was made. No defect was found with the helicopter or its systems which may have contributed to the occurrence and the reason for the loss of control, reported by the pilot, was not determined. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Hughes Helicopters
Model
269
Registration
VH-KLQ
Operation type
Aerial Work
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Scartwater QLD
Departure time
N/K
Destination
Scartwater QLD
Damage
Substantial