What happened
On 27 March 2024, a Robinson R22 Beta, registration VH-KNG, was engaged in an ad hoc rescue mission in Adavale, Queensland, amidst significant regional flooding. The pilot attempted to rescue a resident from a rooftop to prevent potential injury from a collapsing structure. After picking up the passenger, the pilot initiated a takeoff from the roof. During the maneuver, the pilot realized the aircraft lacked the necessary performance to clear obstacles and maintain altitude. Following established procedures for low rotor RPM, the pilot executed a controlled ditching into the surrounding floodwaters. While both occupants exited the aircraft safely, the passenger suffered serious chemical burns due to prolonged exposure to floating fuel in the water.
The investigation
The ATSB investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making and the aircraft's weight and balance. The investigation found that the pilot was performing a highly demanding and unfamiliar task, as they had no specific training for rooftop or rescue operations. This high workload, combined with the perceived urgency of the passenger's situation, likely led to plan continuation bias.
Crucially, the pilot was unable to accurately calculate the aircraft's gross weight before departure. Due to the passenger's bulky clothing and the pilot's intense focus on maintaining control on the precarious rooftop, the weight of the passenger was underestimated. Calculations later revealed the aircraft was at least 46 kg above its maximum takeoff weight. Furthermore, a power check was not performed prior to takeoff because the pilot feared the structural integrity of the roof was failing.
Findings
- The pilot attempted a complex rescue operation without specific training or specialized procedures.
- The aircraft was significantly overweight, which prevented the necessary performance for a confined area takeoff.
- High workload and the perceived risk of roof collapse contributed to a failure to assess performance limitations.
- The passenger was not briefed before the flight and was not wearing a properly fitted seatbelt.
- The pilot felt a moral obligation to assist, despite being neither trained nor equipped for such a mission.