Narrative
On 24 March 2020, a Bell 205 UH-1H helicopter, registration V5-HOZ, operated by Expedite Aviation, departed Tsumeb Airport at 07:20 UTC for a shrubs spraying flight to Kraalkop portion 1 farm, approximately 3 km east of the airport. After completing the spraying, the helicopter returned to Tsumeb Airport for what was intended to be the final landing of the day.
During the landing phase, the pilot turned the helicopter into the wind direction in accordance with standard landing procedures. While hovering for landing, the pilot experienced a collective bounce, followed by a serious vertical oscillation (vibration) of the helicopter. The severe vibration caused the pilot to lose rudder control, resulting in the helicopter yawing to the right and losing height in a rolling motion to the left.
The main rotor blade struck the ground first, and the helicopter came to a stop lying on its port side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage.
Investigation
The Directorate of Aircraft Accident Investigation has initiated an investigation in accordance with ICAO Annex 13 and the Civil Aviation Act (Act No. 06 of 2016). A full report will be submitted upon completion.