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Robinson R44 Accident at Thabazimbi, Limpopo (ZS-ORG)

Boesmanskraal Safaris Private Farm, ZA

On July 11, 2023, a Robinson R44 Raven II (registration ZS-ORG) was involved in an aviation accident near Boesmanskraal Safaris Private Farm, ZA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: During lift-off, the helicopter experienced an unanticipated yaw to the right due to high and gusty wind conditions. This summary draws on records from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations Division.

Sourcesthe South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Accident and Incident Investigations DivisionPrimary reportUpdated 2026-10-18Data APIEditorial standards

On 11 July 2023, a Robinson R44 Raven II (ZS-ORG) experienced a dynamic rollover during takeoff in high, gusty winds near Thabazimbi, Limpopo, sustaining substantial damage with no injuries.

Overview and Flight Details On the morning of 11 July 2023, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registered ZS-ORG, departed Worcester Private Farm near Thabazimbi in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The flight, conducted under Part 91 of the Civil Aviation Regulations, was intended to reach Boesmanskraal Safaris Private Farm. The helicopter was piloted by a 62-year-old male holding a valid Private Pilot Licence, with one passenger on board. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed during the approximately 15-minute flight, which was uneventful until the final approach and landing phase at the destination.

Probable cause

During lift-off, the helicopter experienced an unanticipated yaw to the right due to high and gusty wind conditions. The pilot's corrective action of applying left pedal and lowering the collective failed to stop the yaw, leading to loss of control and a dynamic rollover.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jul 2023 Robinson R44 Raven II accident near Boesmanskraal Safaris Private Farm, ZA?

On 11 July 2023, a Robinson R44 Raven II (ZS-ORG) experienced a dynamic rollover during takeoff in high, gusty winds near Thabazimbi, Limpopo, sustaining substantial damage with no injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Jul 2023 Robinson R44 Raven II accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jul 2023 involved a Robinson R44 Raven II, registration ZS-ORG, at Boesmanskraal Safaris Private Farm, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

During lift-off, the helicopter experienced an unanticipated yaw to the right due to high and gusty wind conditions. The pilot's corrective action of applying left pedal and lowering the collective failed to stop the yaw, leading to loss of control and a dynamic rollover.

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