Incident Overview
On 6 September 2001 at 1145 UTC, a Hughes Helicopters Inc Hughes 269C, registration G-ZBHH, was conducting a training flight at Redhill Aerodrome in Surrey. The aircraft, manufactured in 1980 and powered by a Lycoming HIO-360-D1A engine, sustained damage beyond economical repair, including bent rotor blades, tail rotor, and skids. The sole occupant, a 41-year-old student pilot with 34 hours of flying experience on type, exited the helicopter unassisted after the incident.
Sequence of Events
The student pilot had completed his first solo flight the previous day, following consolidation training that included engine-off landings. On the day of the accident, the instructor and student flew from Biggin Hill, Kent to Redhill for further consolidation and solo flying. After four dual circuits, the instructor deemed the student ready for additional solo work. The student successfully flew two circuits and commenced a third.
During the approach to the 01 'H' landing area, the student perceived a rough running engine and noticed a split between the engine and rotor RPM indicator needles. He ensured the throttle was fully open, but the helicopter continued to descend. The instructor, monitoring from the ground, observed the helicopter stop at approximately 40 to 50 feet, turn left, and then sink straight down. As the helicopter neared the ground, the student initiated a flare, levelled the aircraft, and attempted to cushion the landing with the collective pitch lever. The helicopter landed heavily, bounced, and yawed left. After coming to rest, the pilot executed emergency shutdown procedures and exited through the normal exit.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, the surface wind was from 340 degrees at 10 knots. Visibility was good, with medium-level cloud and no precipitation.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the engine following the accident revealed no fault. The student pilot speculated that he might have mishandled the twist grip throttle, leading to an apparent loss of power.