Occurrence
On 20 July 2020, a privately registered Robinson R44 helicopter was conducting a multi-leg cross-country pleasure flight. The helicopter departed Springdale Airport, Newfoundland and Labrador (CCD2), and the pilot intended to refuel at an aircraft maintenance facility located on the north-east side of Thorburn Lake, Newfoundland and Labrador (CCW5).
Upon arrival at Thorburn Lake, the helicopter performed an approach to a gravel parking lot and entered a hover at tree top level. Subsequently, the helicopter began to climb vertically. Control was lost, and the aircraft collided with terrain.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot and the front-seat passenger sustained multiple serious injuries. The passenger in the right-hand rear seat was fatally injured. The helicopter was destroyed. Nearby witnesses provided first aid to the occupants and extinguished a small fire.
Investigation
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada conducted a class 4 investigation, which is limited in scope and does not contain findings or recommendations. Class 4 investigations are typically completed within 220 days.