Introduction
On 4 May 2002 at 0700Z, a Robinson R22 helicopter, registration ZS-RFV, was involved in an incident while conducting a game counting operation. The flight departed from the Doornkloof Nature Reserve. The pilot and one passenger were on board.
Sequence of Events
The pilot and passenger studied maps with the reserve manager and began transects at one of the highest points in the southeastern corner of the reserve. While turning out towards a valley to start the transects, the helicopter collided with a steel cable. The cable struck the nose of the helicopter, 5 inches below the compass mount at a 40° angle. It then sliced back along both sides of the fuselage, cutting into the skin and damaging the cooling fan. The pilot landed the aircraft safely without further damage.
Injuries and Damage
The occupants were not injured, and there were no fatalities. The aircraft sustained extensive damage. Weather conditions were fine with a temperature of 13°C (CAVOK).
Probable Cause
The probable cause is that the pilot was flying at low level and failed to observe the steel cable, resulting in a collision.