What happened
On the afternoon of 2 October 2002, a Bell 206B JetRanger III, registration ZK-HRC, was performing a routine positioning flight to Huka Falls, approximately 3 km north of Taupo. The pilot was transporting a passenger to the landing site to prepare for a scheduled scenic flight.
As the helicopter approached the landing pad in clear weather, the pilot initiated a descending left turn to land into the wind. While attempting to increase power to maintain a steady approach and transition into a hover, the pilot heard a continuous audio warning indicating low main rotor speed. Despite attempts to increase the governor setting, the engine power failed to respond.
The helicopter landed heavily at the edge of the landing area and began to slide across the pad. In an effort to slow the aircraft's progress, the pilot applied aft cyclic control. During this movement, the main rotor blades struck the tail boom, severing it and causing the aircraft to strike the far side of the pad, land on its nose, and eventually roll onto its side. The two occupants escaped with only minor bruising and scratches, though the helicopter sustained extensive damage.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and the engine, a Rolls Royce Allison 250-C20B. The engine was transported to a facility in Melbourne, Australia, for specialized testing. While the engine showed slightly low power in the mid-range during ground runs, it performed within service limits, and no mechanical anomalies were found during a full strip inspection.
Analysis of the landing site showed tracks consistent with the helicopter sliding across the pad. Investigators also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting that a 300-hour check had been completed just two days prior. While the possibility of a transient fuel or air issue could not be ruled out, no evidence of fuel contamination or air leaks in the fuel system was discovered. The investigation also noted that the engine continued to run at a reduced speed even after the aircraft had rolled onto its side.
Findings
- The pilot was appropriately licensed, experienced, and fit for the flight.
- The aircraft was properly maintained and was considered airworthy at the time of the incident.
- The cause of the power loss could not be determined through post-accident inspection or engine testing.
- The pilot's actions during the emergency prevented serious injury to the occupants.