What happened
On December 27, 2012, a Robinson R44 II, registration PP-PFC, departed from Jacarepaguá Aerodrome (SBJR) bound for Heliponto Marechiaro (SDMS) in Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro. The aircraft was operating a private flight carrying one pilot and three passengers.
During the initial approach and landing attempt, the pilot identified an excessive rate of descent and elected to abort the maneuver. On a second attempt, despite utilizing power levels near the aircraft's operational limits, the pilot was unable to execute a go-around. Consequently, the aircraft struck the ground with a high rate of descent, spinning 180 degrees relative to the approach axis.
The investigation
The investigation confirmed that the pilot held valid medical and technical certifications, with extensive experience including 2,800 total flight hours and 660 hours in the specific model. The aircraft was also found to be in compliance with airworthiness requirements and was within weight and balance limits at the time of the event. The inspection of the wreckage revealed significant damage, including deformed skids, misalignment of the tail boom, impact damage to the tail rotor from contact with the ground, and longitudinal movement of the main rotor mast relative to the vertical axis of the airframe.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the inability to execute a go-around during the second landing attempt despite operating near maximum power limits.
- The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the landing gear, tail boom, and rotor mast.
- All four occupants remained uninjured.