History of Flight
The pilot and an aerial tracker began their shift at Grand Central Aerodrome (FAGC) shortly before 0400Z on 26 April 2008. They flew to Rand Aerodrome (FAGM) under the callsign Netstar 1. After landing on the helipad south of the control tower, the helicopter was refuelled with 142 litres of Avgas 100LL. At about 0745Z, the crew received a call-out for a stolen vehicle in the Benoni area. The pilot contacted the control tower and was cleared for takeoff with instructions to remain north of runway 29. However, the pilot did not depart immediately and requested clearance again four minutes later, receiving the same instruction. Witnesses observed the helicopter lift off from the helipad and immediately turn right, flying at slow speed within ground effect. The pilot's door was open, and the flight appeared erratic and unstable. The helicopter did not gain sufficient altitude and its main rotor blades struck a hangar door (hangar 33), located about 600 m east of the helipad. After the impact, the pilot lost control, and the helicopter made a hard landing on the apron. It remained upright, skidded approximately 80 m, and came to rest on its left side, engulfed in flames. Several people attempted to extinguish the fire but were unsuccessful. Aerodrome fire services responded, but the helicopter was consumed by fire. Both occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot and the passenger (aerial tracker) sustained fatal injuries. No other injuries were reported.
Damage to Aircraft
The helicopter was destroyed by the post-impact fire.
Other Damage
One main hangar door of hangar 33 was damaged when a section of rotor blade penetrated the door structure. A light delivery vehicle and a passenger sedan parked in front of the hangar sustained damage from rotor blade contact and debris impact.
Probable Cause
The pilot's mismanagement of an abnormal flight control situation, including failing to control the helicopter after take-off, resulted in impact with a hangar structure.