What happened
On 19 April 2018, a Robinson R44 Raven II, registration ZS-ROX, was preparing for a short ferry flight from Blaawbank Farm to a location approximately one nautical mile south. The aircraft, which had just finished a game capturing operation, was carrying a pilot and three passengers.
During the takeoff sequence from a confined area, the pilot initially lifted into a hover while facing north. To align the aircraft with the prevailing southerly wind, the pilot performed a right pedal turn. As the helicopter transitioned out of ground effect at an altitude of roughly 3 meters above the tree canopy, the main rotor RPM began to decay. In response to the loss of power, the pilot executed an immediate emergency landing. The aircraft struck the ground with significant force, causing damage to the lower fuselage and the skid gear. There were no injuries among the four people on board.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the circumstances surrounding the takeoff and the aircraft's technical status. The investigation confirmed that the aircraft was within its weight limits, with a takeoff weight of 2,298 lbs, well below the maximum allowable 2,500 lbs. The aircraft was also properly maintained, having undergone its last mandatory periodic inspection only 34.3 hours prior to the event. The pilot held a valid commercial license and the necessary type ratings for the R44.
Findings
- The primary cause of the hard landing was a loss of main rotor RPM during the transition from ground effect to flight.
- The aircraft was operating within its permitted weight and balance parameters.
- The incident occurred during daylight hours in favorable meteorological conditions, with a light southerly wind of approximately 3m/s.