Incident Overview
On December 4, 2025, at 23:25 UTC, a Robinson R44 helicopter with registration LV-JKR was involved in an accident in the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires, Argentina. The aircraft, manufactured in 2019 with serial number 2596, was operating under private ownership for non-commercial purposes.
Flight Details and Sequence of Events
The helicopter departed from Helipuerto Dr. Alfredo Lanari with three people on board, intending to fly to San Fernando International Airport. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot-in-command reported a loss of power. Consequently, an emergency landing was executed in the tennis court sector of Parque Manuel Belgrano (formerly KDT).
During the final approach and impact, a main rotor blade struck a light fixture on the premises. This collision destabilized the aircraft, causing it to crash onto its left side. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airframe.
Casualties and Response
All three occupants survived the incident. Two individuals evacuated the wreckage independently, while the third occupant, seated in the front left position, was extracted by medical personnel who arrived at the scene. Firefighters and police also responded to secure the area until the investigation team arrived. The injuries were classified as serious for all three individuals.
Aircraft and Operational Data
The aircraft was powered by a Lycoming 540 Family (O-540-F1B5) engine, which had accumulated 364.9 total hours at the time of the accident. The pilot-in-command, a 46-year-old male, held a helicopter pilot license and had 3,625.2 total flight hours, though only 0.2 hours on this specific type. Weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC) with calm winds and visibility of 10,000 meters during dusk/twilight.