What happened
On 31 October 2009, a privately owned Robinson R44, registration EI-MMO, was performing a local flight near Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny. The pilot was attempting to land at a home base located in a large field adjacent to a wooded area. While approaching a hover at an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 feet, the helicopter suddenly dropped and struck the ground, specifically impacting the rear of the left skid. Following the initial impact, the aircraft bounced back into the air, rolled to the left, and experienced a rapid rightward yaw. Despite the significant impact, both the pilot and the passenger escaped without injury.
The investigation
The AAIU examined the wreckage and the flight conditions leading up to the event. Investigators found that the airframe had suffered extensive distortion, including the twisting of the tailcone and damage to the vertical support tubing. Both main rotor blades were fractured near the hub, and the tail rotor sustained heavy damage, with one blade separating from the assembly entirely. The investigation confirmed that the engine, flight controls, and low rotor speed warning systems were all fully functional prior to the impact. Meteorological data revealed that the area was experiencing an unstable air mass with blustery, changeable winds and showery conditions.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in turbulent and blustery wind conditions.
- The sudden drop and subsequent loss of control were likely caused by a localised downdraught or a sudden loss of lift.
- The pilot was flying at an extremely low altitude, providing insufficient height to execute a recovery maneuver before the ground impact occurred.
- The proximity of the adjacent woodland may have contributed to disturbed airflow at the landing site.