What happened
On the morning of 3 May 2003, a Robinson R-22 Beta helicopter, registration ZS-HUH, was conducting a private flight from Newcastle to Grand Central. After a refueling stop in Newcastle, the pilot and one passenger departed at approximately 1200Z. During the flight, which was being conducted at 6,500 feet, the pilot encountered strong headwinds that made the flight increasingly difficult.
Seeking relief from the taxing flight conditions, the pilot decided to land in a nearby field. He selected a quiet area of farmland located roughly 14.6km northeast of Vrede. The pilot initially approached the area into the wind, which was gusting from the north, and managed to hover the aircraft approximately four feet above the ground. To find a better landing spot, the pilot attempted to hover-taxi to the right, turning the aircraft into a crosswind position. During this maneuver, the aircraft was positioned with the strong gusts coming from behind the helicopter.
The investigation
Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the impact. The pilot reported that as the aircraft was positioned with a tailwind component, he felt the helicopter begin to sink. In an effort to arrest this descent, the pilot increased the collective pitch. This action triggered the low rotor RPM warning light and audio alert. In a subsequent attempt to recover the rotor speed, the pilot lowered the collective pitch, but the aircraft continued a rapid descent.
Findings
- The aircraft's right skid struck the ground, causing the nose to tip forward.
- The momentum caused the helicopter to pivot and ultimately roll over.
- The primary factor in the accident was the loss of translational lift caused by the pilot attempting a landing with a significant tailwind component during strong, gusty wind conditions.
- There were no fatalities and no serious injuries reported, though both occupants sustained minor cuts and bruises.