What happened
On 3 May 2003, a Hughes 319HS, registration G-SOOC, was performing a private flight from a site near Newark to the Hambleton Hotel at Rutland Water. After landing and completing a lunch break, the pilot prepared for the return journey with three passengers on board.
During the takeoff, the pilot lifted the aircraft into a low hover, approximately two to four feet above the ground, while managing the challenges of a sloping grass field. While monitoring engine instruments, the pilot observed that the aircraft began yawing to the right. Despite applying full left tail rotor pedal to counteract the rotation, the helicopter continued to rotate rapidly. Believing a mechanical failure had occurred, the pilot reduced the throttle to idle, causing the aircraft to descend. Upon touchdown, the yaw ceased, but the tail rotor blades struck the ground, causing significant damage to the tail rotor and pylon assembly. No injuries were reported.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft was conducted by an experienced engineer. The investigation found no evidence of an in-flight mechanical malfunction. The tail rotor drive train remained intact, and the control system was found to be fully functional. The damage observed to the tail rotor shaft was determined to have been caused by the blades striking the ground during the landing. The engine anti-icing selector was noted to be in the 'ON' position, though it was unclear if this was set prior to or after the event.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced a loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE) during the takeoff phase.
- The pilot was unable to arrest the rapid rightward rotation despite using full left pedal.
- The tail rotor blades struck the ground due to the uncontrolled yaw during the descent.