What happened
On 6 August 2019, an emergency services crew was conducting an aerial search for a missing person along a canal path in Halifax, Yorkshire. The operation utilized a Parrot UAS, launched from an elevated position in a quiet cul-de-sac to maintain a clear line of sight. Weather conditions were favorable, characterized by sunny skies and temperatures of 22°C, though winds were gusting up to 28 kt.
Following a standard takeoff, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft to an altitude of approximately 60 m. While the aircraft was hovering to allow the operator to survey the canal towpath, heavy vibrations became visible in the camera feed. The pilot attempted a 360° turn to verify the aircraft's stability, which initially appeared successful. However, shortly after this maneuver, the UAS stopped responding to control inputs. The aircraft began to move erratically and autonomously. In an attempt to bring the drone back toward the operator, the aircraft flipped and entered an uncontrolled descent, striking a small residential street. The total flight duration was 81 seconds.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of control and the physical state of the aircraft. The investigation confirmed that there were no injuries to persons and no damage to property on the ground. The aircraft sustained damage to its camera mount and propellers.