2016 Robinson R22 Beta II accident at Killer Krankie, Margate (ZS-REW)

Accident Overview On 27 February 2016, a Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter, registration ZS-REW, operated by Triple R Aviation, crashed during a crop-spraying operation at Killer Krankie farm in Margate, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The accident occurred at 0402Z. ## Flight and Impact The pilot took off from the farm with the intention of returning to the same location. During lift-off, while transitioning at approximately 50 feet above ground level, the low rotor RPM warning light illuminated. The pilot was unable to restore rotor RPM due to the low altitude and executed a forced landing in a sugar cane field. On touchdown, the uneven ground caused the left skid to catch in a furrow, leading to a dynamic rollover. The helicopter came to rest on its left side. ## Injuries and Damage The pilot sustained minor injuries. The helicopter sustained substantial damage, including destroyed main rotor blades, a crushed tail boom, and a broken left skid. The engine remained in its mounting with minor impact damage to the cowlings. No fire was observed. ## Investigation Findings The investigation determined that the pilot failed to monitor main rotor RPM, resulting in a loss of control. The probable cause was an unsuccessful forced landing after take-off due to low rotor RPM. The helicopter was operating near the forward center of gravity limit, and the R22's low-inertia rotor system is prone to rapid RPM decay.