What happened
On 23 October 2018, a Bell UH-H1 helicopter, registration ZS-HLP, was engaged in active firefighting operations near Vermaaklikheid in the Western Cape. The aircraft, operated by Kishugu Aviation, was tasked with suppressing a veld fire that had been burning since the previous day. After completing an initial water drop and refueling, the pilot attempted to maneuver the aircraft toward a valley to collect more water.
During a left-hand turn, the aircraft's Bambi Bucket swung upward and made contact with the tail rotor. This impact caused a loud explosion-like sound and immediate mechanical failure. Eyewitnesses observed the helicopter shaking violently at approximately 50 metres above the ground. The aircraft began to drift and underwent two barrel rolls before impacting the terrain. A post-impact fire erupted, fueled by the aircraft's Jet A-1 fuel and the surrounding wildfire, ultimately destroying the wreckage. The pilot was killed in the accident.
The investigation
SACAA AIID investigators examined the wreckage and interviewed eyewitnesses, including ground firefighting crew. The investigation focused on the mechanical sequence following the contact between the external equipment and the rotor systems. Investigators analyzed the flight path and the aerodynamic forces acting on the Bambi Bucket during the turn. The inquiry also reviewed the maintenance records of the ZS-HLP, confirming the aircraft had a valid certificate of airworthiness and had been maintained by an approved organization. The investigation also looked into the meteorological conditions, noting a 20kt wind and high temperatures of 32°C at the time of the event.