Synopsis
On 16 June 2006, at approximately 1200 UTC, a Robinson R44 Astro helicopter, registration G-ROZI, was involved in a heavy landing at York Racecourse. The aircraft was being operated on a private flight with a single pilot and three passengers. The pilot, a 39-year-old private pilot with 166 hours total flying experience (79 hours on type), had calculated the aircraft weight at 1065 kg against the maximum permitted gross weight of 1089 kg. The weather was good with a light surface wind, no cloud below 4000 feet amsl, and an air temperature of about 20°C. There were no injuries to the crew or passengers, but the helicopter sustained extensive damage.
History of the Flight
The pilot had planned to collect friends and take them to York Racecourse. After completing normal external and pre-flight checks, the pilot noted that G-ROZI appeared fully serviceable. He was seated in the right front seat, and dual controls were fitted. The flight to York was initially uneventful. The pilot selected full carburettor heat prior to descent to the landing site. His approach was from the north, with a final turn to line up on the helicopter landing site in an easterly direction.
The Accident
As the pilot levelled G-ROZI for the final hover before touchdown, the low rpm warning activated, and he became aware of the helicopter sinking. He applied more power but was unable to prevent a heavy landing. Once on the ground, the rpm increased, and the helicopter lifted off again; it turned through approximately 90° before the pilot regained control and touched down in an upright attitude.
Damage and Aftermath
After the pilot shut down the engine and switched off the fuel valve and electrics, all occupants vacated the helicopter through their respective doors. The airframe suffered extensive distortion damage during the heavy landing.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot subsequently confirmed that his front seat passenger remained well clear of the controls throughout the flight. On reflection, he considered that the heavy landing was the result of a combination of a very light wind, high air temperature, and being close to the maximum permitted weight.