Aircraft Information
The aircraft involved was a Robinson R44, registration G-LNDS, powered by one Lycoming O-540-F1B5 piston engine. It was manufactured in 2002. The flight was private, with two crew and no passengers. The commander, aged 47, held a Private Pilot's Licence (Helicopters) and had 100 hours total flying experience, including 17 hours on type. In the last 90 days, he had flown 2 hours; in the last 28 days, 1 hour.
Accident Details
On 28 March 2002 at 1230 UTC, the helicopter was on the ground at Wellesbourne-Mountford Airport, Warwick, parked on a concrete pad facing west. During pre-flight checks, before increasing rotor RPM to 102%, the collective lever was raised to test the low rotor RPM warning horns and lights. Upon raising the collective, the aircraft began a slow yaw to the left. After approximately three complete turns, the rear of the left skid dug into the grass beside the concrete pad, causing the helicopter to pitch rearwards. The tail then struck the ground, resulting in extensive damage to the tail rotor. The helicopter came to rest upright on the pad. An observer nearby, who was taking pictures, noted that the incident appeared similar to full left yaw pedal being applied.
Weather at the time was wind from 120° at 4 knots, visibility greater than 20 km.
Examination
Subsequent examination of the helicopter by maintenance personnel revealed no pre-existing defects in the control systems that could have contributed to the accident.