Robinson R44 Astro, G-YIIK, 21 July 2008

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 21 July 2008
• Aircraft type: Robinson R44 Astro
• Location: Delph, near Oldham, Lancashire
• Registration: G-YIIK

Robinson R44 ASTRO, G-YIIK

Summary:

After entering the hover at a private site the pilot lost control of the helicopter, as a result of a large shift of wind, and it started to rotate. The pilot managed to increase the helicopter’s height but as it continued to rotate. At about 200 ft agl the helicopter stopped rotating but the low main rotor rpm (Nr) warning sounded. The pilot lowered the collective lever; and elected to land in a field below. Just before impacting the ground the pilot raised the collective lever to try to cushion the impact. As a result of the landing the pilot was seriously injured and the helicopter was damaged beyond economical repair.

Download report:

Robinson R44 Astro, G-YIIK 05-09.pdf (269.68 kb)

Published 10 December 2014