Incident Overview
On August 10, 2016, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registration LV-BRN, experienced a starter system issue during a flight from San Fernando International Airport in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Ángel S. Adami International Airport (Melilla) in Uruguay. The pilot, who had noted an unusual noise during engine start-up, departed at 08:45 local time with three persons on board under VFR flight plan.
Flight Details
While passing north of Colonia, the pilot was informed via frequency 120.8 MHz that both Adami and Carrasco airports were below landing minima. At approximately 09:45, the decision was made to return to Colonia. At that time, the amber "STARTER ON" warning light illuminated. As a precaution, the pilot executed a landing in an open field.
After landing, attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The pilot contacted an acquaintance to notify authorities of the situation.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the starter system revealed that the bendix of the starter motor and the ring gear exhibited significant wear. This wear prevented the starter from rotating the engine, rendering restart impossible.