What happened
On 09 November 2019, a 9M-EBZ gyroplane, operated by Felcra Bhd, was conducting low-level pesticide spraying over a paddy field in Kampung Jejawi, Perak. During the operation, the pilot was flying at an altitude of approximately 3 meters to cover the area. While navigating the field, the pilot noticed rising terrain and attempted to climb to maintain clearance. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a pole topped with a white flag, which caused the engine propeller tips to be severed.
The impact resulted in a loss of forward thrust. The pilot performed a 180-degree turn to execute an emergency landing near a main road. During the descent, the aircraft struck several internet cables before making a hard landing on a grassy area. The 9M-EBZ sustained extensive damage, including a severed tail section, damaged rotor blades, and structural damage to the airframe and nose gear. The pilot escaped the wreckage without injury.
The investigation
AAIB Malaysia examined the circumstances surrounding the flight and the operational environment. The investigation focused on the pilot's competency, the aircraft's airworthiness status, and the regulatory oversight of the aerial work. Investigators reviewed the pilot's training history, noting that while the pilot had completed manufacturer training in Spain, the qualification had not been formally endorsed on his Malaysian commercial license. Furthermore, the investigation found that the aircraft was operating with an expired Permit to Fly.
Findings
- The pilot lacked the necessary rotary-wing experience required for safe aerial application operations.
- The aircraft was operating without a valid Permit to Fly.
- The operation was being conducted without the required Aerial Work Certificate from the Director General.
- There was a lack of coordination with Air Traffic Control (ATC) regarding the low-level operations.
- The operation lacked adequate supervision from experienced personnel or the regulatory body.
- The pilot's lack of experience in rotary-wing aerodynamics during low-speed maneuvers contributed to the collision with the field markers.
Safety action
- The CAAM should review the organization's operations to ensure compliance with all aerial work safety requirements.
- Guidelines should be established to ensure pilot qualifications are verified prior to aerial application tasks.
- The validity of the Permit to Fly must be clearly displayed to prevent use of expired certificates.
- Improved communication or NOTAM procedures should be implemented to alert other aircraft to low-level operations in the area.