What happened
While operating near Courtenay, British Columbia, the pilot of a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registration C-FQDQ, was performing aerial rides for volunteers from a local avian rescue society. After completing several trips, the pilot prepared for a flight to Courten and began a confined-space takeoff.
At approximately 1630 Pacific daylight time, the aircraft reached an altitude of roughly 60 feet when the engine produced abnormal sounds and a noticeable detonation. Shortly after, the engine went quiet and the main rotor blades lost nearly all rotation. The helicopter entered a rapid descent, rotating approximately 270 degrees to the left before striking the ground with minimal forward velocity. The pilot sustained severe injuries, and while the aircraft was heavily damaged, no fire occurred following the impact.
The investigation
Investigators examined the engine and related systems, finding the engine capable of producing full power and in an acceptable condition. However, the carburetor heat control was found in the "COLD" position, allowing unheated outside air into the system. The investigation also noted that the weather conditions—specifically an air temperature of 19°C and a dew point of 12°C—were conducive to carburetor icing.
Technical inspections of the aircraft revealed several maintenance and installation issues. A 5-amp fuse had been installed in place of a required 1.5-amp fuse for the belt-tension actuator. Additionally, a portable GPS unit had been temporarily secured to the instrument console using clecos, with wiring powered continuously from the clutch switch.
Findings
- The pilot did not apply carburetor heat prior to departure or during the takeoff phase.
- Carburetor ice likely impaired engine performance, leading to engine stoppage.
- Due to the low-inertia rotor design and the lack of altitude or airspeed, the main rotor RPM decayed too quickly for the pilot to recover or arrest the descent.