What happened
On 2 November 2007, a Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter, registration ZS-RPY, was engaged in a private game-darting operation at Hunter’s Moon farm near Colesberg. Following an initial period of darting animals and a brief landing to reload equipment, the pilot and a passenger departed the farm once more to continue their search for animals.
During the takeoff phase, the pilot observed telephone wires located approximately 300 m ahead of the aircraft. While attempting to climb over these telephone lines, the pilot encountered electrical wires spanning the flight path. Despite an attempt to apply power to clear the obstacle, the helicopter's skids struck the cables. The impact caused the aircraft to nose over and strike the ground, resulting in the destruction of the Robinson R22 Beta II. The passenger sustained fatal injuries, while the pilot suffered serious injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the flight. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was properly maintained and had no reported mechanical defects prior to the accident. Meteorological data indicated favorable flying conditions, with clear visibility and light winds.
Investigators analyzed the spatial relationship between the various obstacles. The takeoff occurred approximately 100 m from the electrical wires and 400 m from the telephone wires. The investigation established that the pilot's attention was directed toward the more distant telephone lines, which led to the late detection of the electrical cables.
Findings
- The primary cause of the accident was the collision between the helicopter and electrical power cables spanning the flight path.
- A significant contributing factor was that the pilot failed to maintain a proper lookout during the takeoff sequence.
- The impact with the ground was severe enough that the tail boom separated from the main wreckage.
- Weather conditions were not a contributing factor to the occurrence.