What happened
On 26 October 2017, a Rotorway Executive 162F, registration G-CCMU, was conducting a private local flight when the aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent. While the pilot was turning onto final approach at an altitude of approximately 40 to 50 feet, the helicopter began to yaw to the left. Despite attempts to correct the movement using the right pedal, the rate of turn increased rapidly.
As the aircraft lost altitude, the pilot attempted to compensate by raising the collective lever, but the descent could not be arrested. The helicopter completed two or three spins before impacting a grass surface at Salterford Farm, Nottinghamshire. The aircraft struck the ground with its skids level before rolling over, resulting in extensive damage. Both occupants were wearing safety harnesses and were able to exit the cabin through a broken windscreen. The pilot sustained no injuries, while the passenger suffered one minor injury.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight dynamics and the pilot's experience levels. The pilot noted that his airspeed had decreased significantly during the approach, which may have led to an unintentional hover out of ground effect (OGE). The investigation also reviewed the pilot's flying history, noting that at the time of the accident, the pilot had 60 total flying hours, with only 17 hours completed on this specific aircraft type.
Findings
- The pilot's excessive reduction in airspeed during the approach likely caused the aircraft to enter a hover out of ground effect.
- Insufficient engine power application during this maneuver likely caused a drop in rotor speed, which reduced the effectiveness of the tail rotor and initiated the spin.
- The pilot's relatively low level of experience may have hindered his ability to recognize and react to the developing situation.
- The Rotorway Executive 162F pilot operating handbook explicitly prohibits pilots with fewer than 150 hours of experience from performing out of ground effect hovers.