Accident Overview
On 15 August 2016 at 1215 hrs, a Robinson R66 helicopter, registration N166MG, was involved in an accident during landing at a private site in Stowe, Buckinghamshire. The flight was conducted under private operation. The pilot, the sole crew member, and two passengers were on board; none sustained injuries. The helicopter sustained collapsed skids and minor distortion to several body panels.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The helicopter, manufactured in 2016 (serial number 0694), was powered by a single Rolls-Royce 250-C300/A1 turboshaft engine. The pilot held a Commercial Pilot's Licence, was 47 years old, and had accumulated 2,437 total flying hours, including 54 hours on type. In the preceding 90 days, he had flown 47 hours, with 17 hours in the last 28 days.
Landing Sequence
The pilot reported that he had previously visited the landing site. The weather was CAVOK with wind from 090° at 5 kt. Approaching from the south-south-west, he landed on a relatively flat area above a slope, with the rear of the helicopter's skids over the edge. As the helicopter settled, it pitched nose-up. The pilot responded by simultaneously raising the collective and pushing forward on the cyclic. This caused the helicopter to lift and roll left. To avoid colliding with surrounding trees, the pilot lowered the collective. The helicopter subsequently landed firmly, resulting in the front skids collapsing and minor fuselage panel distortion.
Damage
The accident resulted in collapsed skids and minor distortion to several body panels. No other damage was reported.
Conclusion
The pilot stated that he had misjudged the position of the slope and may have over-reacted to the initial pitch-up.