What happened
On February 6, 2003, an EC120B helicopter, registration PP-MHG, was conducting a flight demonstration for a prospective buyer. After departing from Campo de Marte airport in São Paulo, the pilot proceeded to a landing area at the Guarapiranga Reservoir.
While performing a lateral displacement maneuver at an altitude of less than five feet, the aircraft's right skid struck the ground, burying itself in the grass. The impact caused the helicopter to roll to the right and pitch forward. Despite the pilot's attempts to apply left cyclic and collective inputs to recover lift, the aircraft continued to tilt until the main rotor blades struck the ground. The pilot subsequently shut down the engine, and the aircraft came to rest on its right side. All four occupants (the pilot and three passengers) escaped the accident uninjured, though the aircraft sustained severe damage.
The investigation
CENIPA's investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the environmental conditions at the time of the maneuver. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was fully qualified, with a valid commercial helicopter license and type rating for the EC120B. The aircraft's maintenance records, including its 100-hour inspection, were up to date, and the aircraft was within its approved weight and center of gravity limits.
Investigators examined the terrain and the execution of the maneuver, noting that the ground was not well-compacted. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flight planning and situational awareness regarding the landing site's surface conditions.