What happened
On March 3, 2006, a Robinson R44 helicopter, registration PP-MOF, departed from the West Gate helipad in Barueri, São Paulo, bound for Ilha Bela. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft lost lift and began a rapid descent. The crew was unable to maintain control, leading the helicopter to strike several trees before impacting the ground. The accident resulted in two fatalities among the passengers and one serious injury to the pilot.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation established that the aircraft was operating under high-density altitude conditions, with a density altitude of approximately 5,400 feet. While the aircraft's performance was within limits for in-ground effect (IGE) operations, it was outside of its operational limits for out-of-ground effect (OGE) flight. The takeoff was performed with a tailwind, further degrading performance.
Investigators found that the pilot in command (the passenger in the right seat) was operating with an expired technical certificate (CHT). The aircraft's rotor RPM alarms were triggered during the takeoff attempt, indicating a loss of rotor speed. Additionally, the investigation noted that the takeoff occurred from a helipad that had been officially closed via NOTAM due to a failure to renew its registration.
Findings
- Inadequate performance analysis: The crew failed to properly evaluate the impact of high temperature (35°C), high density altitude, and tailwind on the aircraft's takeoff capabilities.
- Pilot error and lack of qualification: The person operating the controls was not properly qualified for the flight, and the experienced pilot in the left seat failed to intervene effectively or timely.
- Operational non-compliance: The flight was conducted from an unauthorized, closed helipad, and the pilots were operating with expired technical certificates.
- Organizational failures: The operator demonstrated poor safety management by scheduling pilots with expired certifications and failing to supervise flight planning processes.