What happened
On April 5, 2009, at approximately 16:45, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration G-CESO, arrived at the Amboise aerodrome from Lorris for refueling. After performing a hover in front of the fueling station, the aircraft began its descent. During this maneuver, the rear of the skids touched the ground, causing the aircraft to bounce forward and backward. This instability led to a severe nose-down pitch, causing the main rotor blades to strike the ground near the fueling station. The cabin subsequently struck the ground, and the aircraft rolled onto its right side, instantly bursting into flames.
The intense fire, fueled by the aircraft's remaining fuel and the nearby fuel distribution hose, destroyed the helicopter up to the tail boom attachment point and damaged the fueling station's superstructure. The pilot and the front passenger both succumbed to their injuries; the pilot died shortly after evacuating, and the front passenger died in the hospital the following day. The rear passenger was found deceased within the wreckage after the fire was extinguished.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence through numerous eyewitness accounts from experienced pilots present at the aerodrome. Investigators confirmed that the pilot was qualified and in control of the aircraft, with his hands on the flight controls. The investigation also noted that the front passenger, who was also a qualified helicopter pilot, was observed with his hands on the flight controls during the hover preceding the accident.
Technical analysis of the wreckage showed that the engine was functioning at the time of impact and that the rotor speeds appeared normal. The investigation also ruled out mechanical failure, noting that the aircraft's maintenance was up to date and that no prior malfunctions were evident. Medical examinations of the occupants revealed no physiological anomalies that could have contributed to the accident.