Robinson R44 Raven II Accident at Witfontein Fire Base (ZS-RUI)

Accident Overview and Flight History On 19 July 2012, a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, registration ZS-RUI, was involved in an accident at Witfontein Fire Base in the George area of the Western Cape, South Africa. The aircraft was operated by its owner, A Neethling, and piloted by a 24-year-old commercial pilot. The flight was a private operation intended to travel from Witfontein Fire Base to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. At approximately 1450Z, the pilot landed at the fire base. Without shutting down the engine and rotors, two passengers disembarked. The pilot then prepared for take-off under visual meteorological conditions. During the take-off sequence, while hovering approximately 4–6 feet above ground level, the helicopter became unstable, exhibiting nose pitching and yawing. The pilot reported that the controls felt stiff and checked the friction adjustments and hydraulic switch, both of which were found to be in the correct position. Despite applying more power to stabilize the aircraft, the helicopter entered into uncontrollable clockwise yaw. The aircraft subsequently struck a wire mesh perimeter fence and impacted the ground. The pilot sustained minor injuries and was admitted to a hospital for observation. The helicopter sustained substantial damage, and minor damage was caused to the fence. No fire occurred before or after the impact.