Background
The aircraft involved was a privately owned Robinson R44II rotorcraft, registration JA44AT, manufactured on November 22, 2002. The captain held a private pilot certificate (rotorcraft) issued May 18, 2007, with a Class 2 aviation medical certificate valid until October 10, 2014. His total flight time was 230 hours, including 170 hours on type.
Flight Details
On Saturday, July 26, 2014, at approximately 14:45 Japan Standard Time, the helicopter approached the Thalassa temporary helipad in Uramura Town, Toba City, Mie Prefecture. The captain and one passenger were on board. The weather was fine with a southerly wind of about 2 m/s and good visibility.
Accident Sequence
According to statements from the captain and the landowner, the helicopter approached from the north due to the southerly wind. Several cars were parked near the designated takeoff and landing area. The landowner, who had arrived to guide the helicopter, instructed the captain to land on the south side of the helipad, away from the vehicles. The captain hovered above the south side and attempted to turn the helicopter’s nose northward in preparation for departure. During the turn, the tail cone struck tree branches on the east side. The captain heard a sound of contact and later found the tail cone broken and fallen off. Branches from the trees were also on the ground. The helicopter landed with a wobble.
Damage
The helicopter was substantially damaged: the lower fuselage frame was bent, main rotor blades were partially fractured, and the tail cone was broken.
Operational Context
The temporary helipad operated under permission granted per proviso of Article 79 of the Civil Aeronautics Act. The application for permission specified a landing direction of 325° and a takeoff direction of 010°, with ground security personnel to keep the area off-limits. According to statements, neither the captain nor the landowner ensured that the takeoff and landing area was clear of parked cars. The helicopter operated in a different direction and location than permitted.
Injuries
No injuries to persons were reported.