What happened
On January 26, 2010, a Robinson R44 helicopter, registration PT-YSG, operated by Rotorwest AeroTáxi e Serviços Aéreos Especializados Ltda., was performing an aerial photography mission. The flight originated from the Rolls Royce Brasil helipad in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo. After departing the helipad, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, resulting in an emergency landing in the median strip of the Anchieta Highway (SP-1/KM 19).
While the pilot and one passenger escaped without injury, the other two passengers sustained minor injuries. The helicopter sustained severe damage to its structure, including the separation of the right skid and damage to the tail rotor drive shaft following impact with the ground.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the aircraft's weight and balance and the organizational structure of the operator. Investigators found that the pilot had not performed weight and balance calculations prior to the departure from the SDIY helipad. The pilot had estimated each passenger's weight at approximately 70kg, whereas the actual weights were 92kg, 93kg, and 120kg. Consequently, the aircraft was approximately 160lb above its maximum allowable takeoff weight.
The investigation also examined the operator's management practices. The company lacked a flight coordination department, a flight safety department, and formal training or evaluation procedures for its pilots. Furthermore, the pilot was in a probationary period and felt pressure to complete the flight to secure his professional position.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the aircraft exceeding its maximum takeoff weight.
- The pilot failed to perform necessary weight and balance calculations before departure.
- The pilot demonstrated complacency by accepting the flight without knowing the exact passenger weights or flight details.
- The operator lacked adequate organizational oversight, including the absence of a flight safety sector and formal pilot training manuals.
- The pilot's high motivation to maintain employment during a probationary period influenced his decision-making, leading him to accept unsafe operating conditions.
- The company lacked a structured system for flight dispatch and operational supervision.