Summary
On 11 September 2010, at approximately 10:28 a.m., a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration HS-HLL, operated by Heliluck Aviation Services Company Limited, crashed into the Chao Phraya River near Klang Kret Temple Pier in Nonthaburi Province, Thailand. The aircraft struck high-voltage power lines during a low-altitude flight, lost control, and fell into the river. The two crew members were not injured, while the two passengers received minor injuries.
Accident Details
The helicopter departed from a temporary takeoff and landing area in Bang Bua Thong District at 10:16 a.m. for a local flight to film travel documentaries and observe flooding conditions. After receiving clearance from Bangkok Approach to operate below 500 feet, the pilot flew towards Rama 4 Bridge and then continued north along the Chao Phraya River towards Koh Kret. While flying at an altitude of about 50 feet and a speed of 30-40 knots in front of Wat Klang Kret, the pilot noticed high-voltage power lines ahead on the right side. Turning left to avoid them, the tail rotor struck the power lines, causing loss of control and subsequent impact with the river. The accident occurred at 10:28 a.m.
Aircraft and Crew Information
The aircraft was a Robinson R44 II. The pilot, aged 56, held a Commercial Pilot Licence with ratings for R22 and R44, and had a total flight time of 3,217 hours, including 90 hours on the R44 II. The co-pilot, aged 45, also held a Commercial Pilot Licence with ratings including PIC for R44, and had 5,300 total flight hours, with 11 hours on the R44 II. Both had valid medical certificates.
Damage
The helicopter sustained substantial damage. The main rotor blades were missing one side (91 cm remaining) and bent; the main rotor mast was bent backwards; tail rotor blades were missing tips on both sides; the tail rotor guard and skid showed tears and arcing; the blower and control panel were damaged. Three high-voltage power lines owned by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority were also damaged. The lines were approximately 10.68 meters above the river water level.
Injuries
According to the report, the pilot and co-pilot were not injured. Two passengers sustained minor injuries.