History of Flight
On July 27, 2023, at approximately 0900H local time, a Robinson Helicopter R44 II, registration RP-C189, operated by Philippine Adventist Medical Aviation Services (PAMAS), departed from PAMAS Airstrip at Mountain View College, Valencia City, Bukidnon, to pick up passengers at Barangay Bantuanon, Lantapan, Bukidnon. The passengers were to perform skydiving activities for a local fiesta. After reaching the pick-up point, the aircraft took off with four skydivers aboard, ascending toward a planned altitude of 8,000 feet. Upon reaching 3,000 feet, the aircraft experienced low engine power. The pilot decided to discontinue the flight and return to the PAMAS base. While en route, the aircraft continued to lose power and difficulty maintaining altitude. The pilot searched for a suitable emergency landing area and eventually made a forced landing in a banana plantation at Sitio Babahagon, Lantapan, Bukidnon.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot and three passengers evacuated safely. One passenger seated in the back sustained a minor injury and was transported to a nearby hospital. There were no fatal or serious injuries.
Damage to Aircraft
The aircraft sustained substantial damage due to collision with banana trees and impact with the ground.
Other Damage
At least 20 banana crops were damaged at the accident site.
Personnel Information
The pilot was a 44-year-old American male holding a US FAA Commercial Pilot certificate with rotorcraft-helicopter rating, issued September 1, 2022, and a CAAP Certificate of Validation valid until June 1, 2024. His type rating was for R44 Private Pilot license privileges only. Medical certificate was Class 2, valid until May 15, 2024. Total flying time was 220 hours, with 50 hours on type.
Aircraft Information
The Robinson R44 II (serial number 11037) was manufactured in 2006 and had an airframe total time of 2,200 hours since last Certificate of Airworthiness. It was powered by a Lycoming IO-540-AE1A5 reciprocating engine (serial L-30769-48A) with 1,825 hours since overhaul and 2,863 hours total time. Propellers were Robinson C005-12.
Meteorological Information
Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) prevailed at the time.
Wreckage and Impact
The wreckage was found inside a banana plantation at coordinates 7° 59’ 48.8” N, 125° 03’ 5.8” E, heading 321° NW, approximately 2.51 km from the PAMAS airstrip. The aircraft incurred substantial damage to structures and flight controls upon impact.