What happened
On Monday, August 16, 1999, at 11:45 local time, a Robinson R22 Beta helicopter, registered F-GMHA, was performing a local flight near Danvou-la-Ferrière. Shortly after takeoff, while maintaining an altitude of approximately 500 feet, the pilot was unable to maintain the required rotor RPM.
In response to the loss of rotor speed, the pilot attempted an immediate emergency landing in a nearby field. During this hurried final approach, the aircraft struck the ground on its right skid before bouncing onto the left skid. The helicopter subsequently tipped over and came to rest on its left side. The impact resulted in heavy damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's inability to regulate the engine speed and the sequence of the landing. The inquiry established that the pilot was unable to maintain the necessary rotor RPM using the throttle alone. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the pilot's pre-flight procedures and technical familiarity with the aircraft's systems.