Accident Details
On 21 December 2001 at 0945Z, a Robinson R22 helicopter (registration ZS-REH) was conducting a training flight at FAGM (Rand Airport). The pilot was performing a hovering exercise, having taken off from taxiway 35 and climbing to 5800 ft in a turn, then continuing to circuit altitude during the downwind turn. At the holding point of Runway 29, another aircraft was waiting for take-off clearance. The student pilot decided to land on the grass before crossing the threshold of Runway 29. This distraction of attention led to the pilot executing a hard landing. No injuries were reported. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the airframe and skid gear.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a valid student pilot licence with a type endorsement for the Robinson R22. The aircraft type was also signed out in her logbook. She had a total flying experience of 42 hours, all on type. A valid medical certificate was held, expiring on 28 February 2002.
Aircraft Information
According to available records, the helicopter was serviceable prior to the accident. The aircraft was operated by NAC Rand under licence number CAA / 0007.
Meteorological and Operational Information
Fine weather conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The flight was duly authorised by the operator. No communication between the air traffic control and the helicopter was made available to the investigator-in-charge (IIC). No on-site investigation was carried out.
Probable Cause
The IIC concluded that the student pilot made an error in judgement regarding the height above the ground, resulting in a hard landing and subsequent damage to the helicopter.