What happened
On June 26, 2020, at approximately 19:30 UTC, a Robinson R44II helicopter, registration PP-BSB, was at the Arapongas Aerodrome (SSOG) in Paraná, Brazil. The pilot intended to perform a ground engine run-up to verify the aircraft's systems. During the engine start sequence, the helicopter lost control on the ground, tipping over and causing the main rotor and tail rotor cone to strike the ground. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the rotor systems, but the pilot emerged uninjured.
The investigation
CENIPA investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the loss of control. The pilot initially suggested that a crosswind had caused the aircraft to yaw left and the tail to drop. However, meteorological data from nearby Londrina (SBLO) and wind indicators at the airfield indicated calm or very light winds (not exceeding 5 knots) at the time of the accident.
Further investigation into the pilot's credentials revealed that while the pilot held a valid single-engine conventional helicopter class rating, they had not operated helicopters for seventeen years prior to the incident. Although the pilot had recently undergone flight training and a check flight in June 2020, there was no evidence of the specific flight hours or the required type endorsement for the R44II as mandated by Brazilian civil aviation regulations (IS 61-006). Additionally, an instructor's note from recent training had previously highlighted the pilot's tendency toward excessive control inputs.
Findings
- The pilot had not operated rotary-wing aircraft for seventeen years.
- The pilot lacked the specific flight experience and required endorsements for the R44II model.
- The pilot's application of flight controls contributed to the loss of control.
- Failure to adhere to established civil aviation regulations regarding specific type training and endorsements was a key factor in the accident.