What happened
On 19 July 2011, an Agusta A109E helicopter, registration G-GCMM, was conducting a private flight between Gloucester and Corsham, Wiltshire. The flight was intended to transport a passenger from an industrial depot to Stoke-on-Trent. Prior to arrival, the pilot had notified the depot manager of the expected arrival time.
Upon approaching the Fiveways Trading Estate, the pilot found the primary landing area obstructed by two articulated lorries. After orbiting the site to find an alternative, the pilot was directed by the depot manager toward the entrance of the depot. The pilot performed an aerial inspection of the new site and, despite noting the area appeared tight, decided to proceed with an into-wind approach.
As the aircraft descended into a hover approximately 5 feet above the ground, the pilot experienced a slight shudder and vibration through the rudder pedals. During the final descent, the tail rotor and skid made contact with a hedge and a concrete post. There were no injuries to the crew or passenger.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the pilot's flight path, the site conditions, and video footage of the event. The investigation confirmed that the landing area was surrounded by various business buildings. Video evidence captured from a nearby building showed the moment the tail rotor struck the concrete post, which was consistent with the pilot's account.
Statements from the depot manager indicated that he had attempted to signal the pilot to avoid landing at the depot entrance and instead use a nearby airfield. The investigation also noted that the pilot had considered landing at a nearby airfield or in adjacent fields but had encountered difficulties regarding access and ownership information.
Findings
- The landing site was constrained by surrounding buildings and may have been unsuitable for the prevailing wind conditions.
- The pilot encountered turbulence caused by a warehouse during the approach, which complicated control of the aircraft's height and heading.
- The tail rotor blades, gearbox, and pitch change mechanism sustained damage due to the impact with the hedge and post.