Investigation number
199000113
Occurrence date
Location
West Wubin
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
Serious

An approaching front was causing the wind to swing from a 45 degree headwind/crosswind to a 45 degree tailwind/crosswind from the left. Although the pilot reported that he considered that the conditions were not suitable, he decided to attempt a takeoff as he felt there was a pressing need to carry out a survey of his property. Just prior to lift off, the aircraft veered to the left and the nosewheel entered a soft area at the side of the strip. The nosewheel broke off and the aircraft cartwheeled across the paddock. The pilot had completed a rotorcraft pilot's course, consisting of 10 hours of instruction, and the first 10 hours of post course consolidation. However, the pilot had very little experience at operating a rotorcraft in fluctuating crosswind conditions. The loss of control was probably the result of a sudden wind change during the latter part of the takeoff roll and pilot inexperience.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
JRM Helyplanes
Model
Challenge Rotocraft
Operation type
Sports Aviation
Departure point
West Wubin, WA
Destination
West Wubin, WA
Damage
Substantial