What happened
On 23 September 2007, a Robinson R44 Raven II, registration ZS-JDB, was conducting aerial filming for a mountain bike marathon near the Eston area. The pilot, accompanied by two passengers, was flying at a low altitude over the Shongweni Dam to capture footage of the lead cyclists.
While attempting to reposition the aircraft to follow a different group of competitors, the pilot turned the helicopter toward the eastern side of the dam. During this maneuver, the pilot noticed the reflection of an electrical wire against the sky. Although an immediate evasive action was attempted, the main rotor blades struck the high-tension wire. The impact caused the helicopter to vibrate and subsequently enter an aggressive right-hand spin. At approximately 2 meters above the water, the aircraft rolled onto its port side and the main rotor struck the surface. The aircraft then sank to a depth of about 10 meters.
All three occupants successfully evacuated the sinking aircraft and swam to safety without sustaining any injuries.
The investigation
An investigation by the SACAA AIID established that the aircraft was operating on a commercial charter flight. The investigation examined the flight path, the condition of the aircraft, and the environmental factors at the crash site. The investigators found that the aircraft was in a serviceable condition with no mechanical defects reported prior to the collision. The weight and balance of the aircraft were within safe limits, and the pilot held a valid commercial license.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision with an electrical wire spanning the dam.
- The pilot was flying at a very low altitude, which is below the standard 500 ft requirement for operations where hazards are present.
- The pilot's attention was divided between managing the aircraft and responding to instructions from the passengers regarding the positioning of the cyclists.
- The electrical wire was difficult to detect because its dark color blended with the background, and the supporting wooden pole was obscured by trees.
- The pilot had not performed a thorough reconnaissance of the specific terrain and hazards prior to the filming mission.
Safety action
- It is recommended that guidance be provided to helicopter operators performing aerial work regarding the necessity of conducting thorough terrain and obstacle inspections before commencing operations.