Investigation number
199801863
Occurrence date
Location
Bellburn Airstrip
State
Western Australia
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Loss of control
Occurrence class
Accident

The pilot reported that he descended to approximately 150 ft AGL as he was approaching Bellburn airstrip, and decided to overfly the windsock. He noted that the wind was an easterly breeze of about 7 knots. The pilot then intended to carry out a left turn, fly a downwind leg, and terminate into wind. He then rolled on about 50 degrees of bank, and shortly afterwards the helicopter began shaking violently. The helicopter then rotated through 180 degrees and adopted a nose down attitude. The pilot said he applied full power and full collective control, but was unable to prevent the helicopter striking the ground.

A witness located near the parking area saw the helicopter bank steeply and then begin to descend. The tail rotor then hit a patio attached to an office building and the main rotor struck a tree just before the helicopter impacted the ground.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Kawasaki Heavy Industries
Model
47G3B-KH4
Registration
VH-SUC
Operation type
Charter
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Turkey Creek Roadhouse WA
Destination
Bellburn Airstrip
Damage
Substantial