Accident Overview
On August 24, 2011, a Robinson R44 II helicopter (registration 9XR-SI) operated by Akagera Aviation for a charter flight crashed shortly after takeoff in the Gatare Sector of Nyamagabe District, Rwanda. The aircraft was loaded near its maximum performance limits and operated in high-density altitude conditions with an approximate pressure altitude of 8,000 feet.
Sequence of Events
One minute after liftoff, during the initial climb, a low rotor RPM warning horn and caution light activated. The pilot attempted to maintain altitude by holding the collective pitch steady while trying to clear obstacles, rather than following the established emergency procedure of lowering the collective and increasing throttle. This intuitive but incorrect response led to a main rotor stall, resulting in a rapid loss of lift and control. The helicopter descended rapidly at low altitude and impacted the flank of the surrounding hilly terrain less than one kilometer from the takeoff site.
Injuries and Damage
All three occupants sustained serious injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.