What happened
On 14 June 2000, a Hughes 269C, registration G-BXMY, was conducting a private training flight at Redhill Aerodrome in Surrey. The flight was a 30-day recency check involving a pilot and a flying instructor. During the maneuver, the crew was performing a practice engine-off approach toward the southern helicopter training area.
While at an altitude of approximately 10 feet, the aircraft experienced a sudden reduction in forward velocity and began to sink rapidly toward the ground. The impact resulted in structural damage to the helicopter, specifically a split starboard skid tube and a rear crossbeam that was damaged beyond repair.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot. Investigators noted that the weather conditions at the time were clear, though a strong southwesterly wind of 16 to 20 knots was present. The crew, consisting of two persons, sustained no injuries during the incident.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in conditions characterized by significant wind activity.
- The primary cause of the loss of altitude was low level windshear, which led to a sudden loss of airspeed.
- The instructor noted that corrective actions taken to compensate for the loss of speed were implemented too late to prevent the descent.