Flight History
On 1 August 2024, the pilot planned a non-commercial flight from Warsaw-Modlin (EPMO) to Niedźwiedzi Róg in a Robinson R44 Cadet helicopter, registration SP-NHM. After arriving at the airport at approximately 2:00 p.m., the pilot checked weather forecasts and current meteorological conditions as well as zone occupancy. He performed a preflight inspection and moved the helicopter out of the hangar. The pilot took his seat, obtained take-off clearance, started the engine, and conducted engine tests. He took off from FATO 26 at 3:43 p.m. After take-off, he climbed to 1,500 ft AMSL and maintained course toward the YANKEE point.
During the climb, the pilot noticed a lower than normal vertical speed and observed that the charge pressure gauge pointer fluctuated within +/- 1 inHg while all other parameters were normal. Above 1,000 ft AMSL, the fluctuation increased to +/- 2.5 inHg with a noticeable decrease in power. The pilot corrected the power shortfall with the collective pitch lever, but even with it near maximum, he continued to lose altitude while maintaining forward speed.
At approximately 900 ft AMSL, the pilot decided to make an emergency landing and selected a landing site. Shortly before touchdown, he performed a flare maneuver and a run-in touchdown. The helicopter crashed into the ground. The pilot exited the helicopter by his own efforts.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot suffered minor injuries. The helicopter was destroyed.
Causes of the Occurrence
The investigation identified two causes: 1) Unjustified decision to perform an emergency landing (autorotation) instead of a precautionary landing (with the engine running). 2) Improperly executed emergency landing without engine power reduction.