What happened
On September 1, 2022, a helicopter, registered as I-A189, was performing a takeoff from a private area in Mezzani, Italy, for recreational purposes. The aircraft was carrying two occupants: a pilot and a passenger. As the helicopter reached an altitude of approximately three meters, it began to yaw initially to the left and then to the right. The aircraft subsequently lost control and impacted the ground, striking several parked cars located near the takeoff site. The impact caused significant damage to the helicopter and minor damage to the vehicles. Both occupants escaped the crash without injuries.
The investigation
The ANSV investigation revealed significant discrepancies regarding the aircraft's identity and legal status. Although registered with the Aero Club d’Italia as a homemade ultralight (VDS) aircraft, physical evidence and component serial numbers confirmed the aircraft was actually a certified Robinson R22B, previously registered under the marks I-PILL. This dual registration issue meant the aircraft had not been properly deregistered from the national registry. Furthermore, the investigation found that the takeoff area, while intended for use as a helipad, had never been officially authorized as such by ENAC.
Investigators also examined the qualifications of the crew. The pilot held a certificate only for single-seat ultralight helicopters, making him unauthorized to fly a two-seat aircraft. The passenger held an expired PPL(H) license and lacked the necessary authorization for ultralight operations. Additionally, the investigation noted that the aircraft's takeoff configuration likely exceeded the weight limits specified in its ultralight registration.
Findings
- Loss of control during the takeoff phase from a private area containing obstacles.
- Limited flight experience and lack of familiarity with the specific aircraft by the pilot.
- Potential control interference, with conflicting reports regarding whether the pilot's pedals were obstructed by his height or if the collective was inadvertently moved.
- Unauthorized flight operations, including the use of an uncertified takeoff site and the operation of a two-seat aircraft by a pilot licensed only for single-seat ultralights.
- Regulatory discrepancies involving the dual registration of the aircraft as both a certified Robinson R22B and an ultralight.