History of Flight
On 24 May 2008, at approximately 1330Z, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registration ZS-SCV, was conducting pleasure rides near the SAPS hangar during the Annual Polokwane Fly-In day at Pietersburg Civil Aerodrome. The pilot held a private pilot licence and had logged 1471.6 total flying hours, with 71.6 hours on type. The helicopter had 40 US gallons of 100 LL Avgas prior to take-off.
The helicopter came into a hover on a left crosswind and turned into wind for take-off. During transition at about 3 metres, the main rotor rpm decayed. The pilot attempted to recover by lowering the collective and applying aft cyclic. The tail rotor struck the ground, causing the nose to pitch down; the right front skid dug into the ground, the helicopter rolled over to its right, and caught fire.
Injuries to Persons
The pilot sustained minor injuries. The front left passenger sustained minor injuries, and the two other passengers sustained serious burns from the fire. All four occupants were admitted to hospital.
Damage to Aircraft
The helicopter was destroyed by the post-impact fire.
Meteorological Information
The weather at the time of the accident, as reported by the pilot, was: surface wind 360°/5 knots, temperature 23°C, visibility CAVOK.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the helicopter lost main rotor rpm during take-off. A contributory factor was incorrect technique used during take-off. Specifically, the helicopter took off at approximately 35 degrees nose-down attitude. During the take-off sequence, the power required exceeded the power available, causing the rotor blades to cone and requiring more power. The helicopter lost main rotor rpm, lost height, and the pilot attempted to keep level by pulling aft cyclic and raising the collective, leading to the tail rotor striking the ground due to excessive flaring.
Wreckage and Impact Information
The helicopter impacted the ground west of runway 08 at coordinates S23° 55' 54.79" E29° 28' 22.25", at an elevation of approximately 4231 feet AMSL. The wreckage remained intact during the impact sequence. A video clip confirmed the engine was still running at impact and when the fire started.