Accident Overview
On December 15, 2017, at 12:20 local time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registration EC-JSC, crashed during the final approach phase of a test flight at Madrid/Cuatro Vientos Airport (LECU). The aircraft was approximately 300 meters from the threshold of Runway 27 when it struck the ground.
Flight History
The helicopter had departed from the same airport with two occupants on board: the pilot and a company maintenance technician (TMA). The purpose of the flight was a post-maintenance check following a scheduled 100-hour inspection. After completing pre-takeoff ground checks without any issues, the helicopter departed from Runway 27. During the circuit, various flight parameters were verified and found satisfactory. On the final approach segment, the crew initiated an autorotation maneuver.
According to the pilot's account, after performing the necessary checks prior to the autorotation, the maneuver was executed. However, the helicopter subsequently impacted the ground.
Injuries and Damage
Both the pilot and the mechanic sustained serious injuries. The helicopter suffered substantial damage. No other persons were involved.
Investigation Findings
The investigation, conducted by the Spanish Civil Aviation Accident and Incident Investigation Commission (CIAIAC), concluded that the accident was caused by an inadequate management of the autorotation maneuver.
Probable Cause
The probable cause, as stated in the official report, is the inadequate management of the autorotation maneuver.