What happened
On 3 December 2010, a Robinson R4-4 Astro, registration ZS-RKY, crashed in the bushveld near Theuniskloof farm in the Alldays district, Limpopo. The flight was being conducted by an individual whose aviation medical certificate had been cancelled in 2005, rendering his pilot's licence invalid.
Shortly after departing for a local flight over the farm, the person flying attempted to demonstrate a "left pedal turn" to a passenger. This manoeuvre, often used during game capture operations, caused the helicopter to enter an uncontrollable spin at approximately 300 feet above ground level. The passenger lost consciousness during the spin and only regained awareness after the impact. The person flying sustained serious injuries, including facial fractures and a spinal compression fracture, while the passenger suffered minor injuries.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators established that the aircraft was mechanically serviceable prior to the accident. However, the investigation was complicated by the fact that two tail rotor blades, which broke off during the impact, were removed from the wreckage by bystanders as memorabilia before investigators arrived.
The inquiry also revealed that the person flying the aircraft was operating without the consent of the helicopter owner. Furthermore, while the aircraft had recently changed ownership, the necessary regulatory paperwork had not yet been submitted to the SACAA. The investigation also noted discrepancies in initial statements regarding the nature of the ongoing farm operations.
Findings
- The person flying the helicopter was not in possession of a valid pilot's licence due to a long-standing medical disqualification.
- The pilot lacked proficiency in flight due to a prolonged period of inactivity.
- The accident was caused by the induction of an uncertified manoeuvre that exceeded the flight envelope of the aircraft.
- The specific manoeuvre used is not part of the approved flight training syllabus and is not a certified manoeuvre for this aircraft type.
- The passenger was unable to intervene in the emergency because they lost consciousness during the spin.