Accident Description
On 8 March 2006, at 0525Z, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registration ZS-RRH, sustained damage during a rollover at the High School Templeton Sports field in Bedford, Eastern Cape. The sole occupant, a 67-year-old male pilot holding an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (Aeroplane) and a Private Helicopter licence, was conducting a private flight. He had departed from Farm Kokskraal, approximately 30 km north of Cookhouse, with the intention to land at the school sports field to pick up a passenger. After landing, he opened his door and observed pupils approaching the helicopter. Deeming the situation unsafe, he decided to relocate to a more suitable landing area.
Sequence of Events
Upon lift-off, the pilot realized his door was still open. He removed his left hand from the collective pitch lever and leaned to the right to close the door with his left hand while keeping his right hand on the cyclic control stick. During this attempt, he unintentionally deflected the cyclic stick to the right. This deflection caused the helicopter to roll to the right and move sideways, resulting in the main rotor blades striking the ground. The impact destroyed the main rotor blades and the aircraft rolled onto its right side.
Injuries and Damage
The pilot sustained several cuts to his head, arms, and legs. He received first aid at the scene from school personnel and was subsequently transported to Somerset East Hospital, where he was discharged later that day. No other persons or property were damaged.
Maintenance and Regulatory Information
The last Mandatory Periodic Inspection (MPI) prior to the accident was certified on 16 May 2005 at 182.3 airframe hours. An additional 46.5 hours were flown after that inspection. The maintenance organization responsible (No. 222) held a valid Maintenance Approval Certificate at the time. The pilot did not obtain prior approval from the school headmaster or local authority to land on the sports field, as required by Part 91.07.4 of the Civil Aviation Regulations of 1997.