1999 Bell 206B Accident Near Copperton, South Africa (ZS-REK)

Accident Overview and Aircraft Details On 4 September 1999 at 0805Z, a Bell 206B helicopter with registration ZS-REK was involved in an accident near Copperton, South Africa. The aircraft was operating in a commercial capacity. The pilot-in-command held a commercial licence, but the licence was invalid at the time of the accident due to the absence of a valid medical certificate. The pilot's total flying experience was 595 hours, with 4,167.3 hours on helicopters. The total hours on the specific aircraft type were unknown. ## Operational Context and Location The helicopter departed from Copperton, located 70 km from Prieska, and was also scheduled to land at Copperton. The accident site was situated 35 km south-east of Copperton. Meteorological conditions at the time of the accident were fine. ## Accident Sequence and Damage During the operation, the helicopter collided with a wire lying across the power lines being inspected. The pilot executed an autorotation and landed. During the landing, the aircraft skidded forward for a short distance. The forward end of the skids dug into the sand, causing the helicopter to tilt forward onto its nose. The main rotor made contact with the tail boom, severing it from the aircraft. The helicopter sustained extensive damage during the accident. ## Casualties and Probable Cause There were two people on board the helicopter. No injuries or fatalities were reported. The probable cause of the accident was identified as unforeseen circumstances.