Flight History
On 20 December 2004, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration EC-ITD, departed from Aeródromo de La Axarquía at 12:20 local time. The flight was a private general aviation flight under visual flight rules (VFR). On board were the pilot and a companion who was also a helicopter pilot. The helicopter landed at a golf course in Estepona to pick up two passengers, a man and a woman who had recently married. The intention was to conduct a scenic flight and then transport the couple to Mijas-Costa for further celebrations.
After departing the golf course with all four occupants, the helicopter flew north of Marbella, overflying the areas of Zagaleta, Embalse de la Concepción, and Istán. Continuing in a southeasterly direction, the helicopter ascended toward the mountain La Concha, then circled to reach the summit of Cerro de Lastonar, located north of La Concha.
Accident Sequence
While near the summit of Cerro de Lastonar, the helicopter was in slow flight. The wind was strong and gusty. The helicopter initiated an erratic trajectory and struck an oak tree on the north slope. The impact caused the loss of one tail rotor blade. Subsequently, the helicopter fell vertically approximately 60 meters to the ground.
Injuries and Damage
The accident resulted in the deaths of the pilot and the two passengers. The accompanying pilot survived with serious injuries and was rescued later the same day.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the helicopter experienced a phenomenon known as loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE). This occurred during slow flight in conditions of strong gusty wind and moderate to severe turbulence, leading to a loss of control.
Probable Cause
The helicopter experienced a loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE) during slow flight in strong gusty wind and moderate to severe turbulence, resulting in a loss of control.