Bell 206B III Crash at Lake Longmere (ZS-HIA)

Accident Overview and Flight Details On 12 June 2006, a Bell 206B III helicopter, registration ZS-HIA, crashed into Lake Longmere near White River. The aircraft was operating a private flight from Nelspruit Aerodrome (FANS) to a residence at Lake Longmere Country Estates, approximately 10 km north of White River. The pilot-in-command was the sole occupant. He held a valid commercial helicopter pilot's licence and had 3,557.0 total flying hours, including 95.0 hours on type. ## Approach and Loss of Control The approach was conducted at night under a full moon, with no wind reported, a temperature of 20°C, and one octa of cloud cover. Due to a local power failure, no surface lights were available to guide the pilot. According to the pilot and a ground witness, he overflew his residence, turned right, and began the final approach over the water in a westerly direction with the landing light on. During this phase, he lost visual reference to the surface, became disorientated, and lost control. The helicopter struck the water approximately 100 m from the shore, inverted, and began to sink. ## Outcome and Recovery The pilot escaped from the cabin and swam to shore without injury. No other persons were on board. The helicopter was recovered the following day after being floated and towed to the Lowveld Angling Club jetty, where it was lifted out by crane. The main rotor assembly was severed from the main rotor drive shaft during impact and was not recovered. The last Mandatory Period Inspection was certified on 26 May 2006 at 7,384.4 airframe hours, with 28.9 additional hours flown before the accident. ## Probable Cause The pilot lost visual reference with the surface during a night landing attempt in a dark area, became disorientated, lost control of the helicopter, and crashed into the water.