History of the Flight
On 28 May 2015, a female student pilot conducted a solo training flight in a Bell 206B III helicopter, registration 9M-LLM, operated by Layang-Layang Helicopter Academy. After a satisfactory external check and engine start at 1130 LT, the helicopter hover-taxied from the academy hangar to Helipad Marker H adjacent to runway 02 at Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Upon landing, the pilot prepared for circuit flying.
While attempting a clockwise spot turn to position for takeoff, the pilot noticed the rotor RPM (Nr) and free power turbine RPM (Nf) indicators splitting and decreasing. Uncertain of the throttle position, she focused on ensuring the throttle was fully open. The helicopter began to drift right and lose height. The descent went unchecked until the right rear skid struck the ground. The helicopter banked right, and the main rotor blades struck the ground. The pilot closed the throttle, and the helicopter crashed onto its right side near the helipad.
Aircraft Information
The helicopter was a Bell JetRanger III, model B206 B III, serial number 3488, manufactured in September 1981. It was powered by an Allison 250-C20B engine (serial number CAE-833211). The airframe had accumulated 6,492.7 hours. The helicopter held a valid Certificate of Airworthiness and was used for training operations by Layang-Layang Helikopter Academy (Certificate of Approval number M1430).
Wreckage and Impact
The crash occurred close to Helipad Marker H. The main rotor blades struck the helipad and disintegrated into several pieces. The main rotor head sheared off from the mast, indicating high-energy rotation. The main gearbox detached and was flung approximately 10 meters from the main wreckage. The tail boom buckled and nearly separated from the fuselage. The engine was removed for tear-down examination.
Fire
A post-impact fire ignited in the baggage compartment and spread to the upper and aft fuselage areas. The fire destroyed much of the helicopter, leaving it beyond repair.
Injuries and Survival
The student pilot sustained minor injuries and escaped by breaking through the front windshield. The accident was considered survivable.
Tests and Research
The dual tachometer was removed and tested on another helicopter; it functioned normally.