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1999 Robinson R44 Accident at Farm Near Dendron (ZS-RHD)

Farm near Dendron, ZA

On May 18, 1999, a Robinson R44, (registration ZS-RHD) was involved in an aviation accident near Farm near Dendron, ZA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A large industrial bag was blown up by the down wash of the helicopter, into the main rotor blades during landing. 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 18 May 1999, a Robinson R44 (ZS-RHD) suffered main rotor damage when an industrial bag was blown into the blades during landing. The pilot made a forced landing; no injuries were reported.

Overview and Flight Details On 18 May 1999 at 1400Z, a Robinson R44 helicopter registered ZS-RHD was involved in an accident near Dendron, South Africa. The aircraft was operating under a private flight from Farm Kwaggasbult to a farm near Dendron. The pilot-in-command held a valid private licence and had 5,984.0 total flying hours, including 1,200.0 hours on type. ## Accident Sequence During an approach to land at a potato factory, a large industrial bag was lifted by the helicopter's downwash and struck the main rotor blades at approximately 15 feet above ground level. The pilot then executed a forced landing in a nearby open area. Post-landing inspection revealed damage to the main rotor blades. ## Outcome and Cause The helicopter carried one person, and no injuries or fatalities were reported. The South African Civil Aviation Authority identified the probable cause as a large industrial bag being blown up by the helicopter's downwash into the main rotor blades during landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 May 1999 Robinson R44, accident near Farm near Dendron, ZA?

On 18 May 1999, a Robinson R44 (ZS-RHD) suffered main rotor damage when an industrial bag was blown into the blades during landing. The pilot made a forced landing; no injuries were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 May 1999 Robinson R44, accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 May 1999 involved a Robinson R44,, registration ZS-RHD, at Farm near Dendron, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A large industrial bag was blown up by the down wash of the helicopter, into the main rotor blades during landing.

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