Introduction
On 28 March 2014 at approximately 09:30 local time, a Robinson R44 II helicopter, registration HB-ZJW, experienced a hard landing during a flight instruction session at Sion Airport (LSGS). The aircraft was operated by Héli-Alpes SA of Sion.
Aircraft and Crew
The helicopter was a Robinson R44 II, owned and operated by Héli-Alpes SA. The flight crew consisted of a professional pilot instructor and a student pilot, both Swiss citizens. The instructor held a Commercial Pilot License (Helicopter) CPL(H) and had logged 1115 total flight hours, including 298 hours on the R44 type (8:53 hours in the preceding 90 days). The student held a Private Pilot License (Helicopter) PPL(H) and had 108 total flight hours, with 7:43 hours on type (all within the prior 90 days).
Accident Details
The flight was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) for instruction purposes. During a simulated engine failure maneuver while the helicopter was in a hover, the aircraft landed harder than intended. The nature of the occurrence is described as a hard landing.
Damage
The landing gear of the helicopter was damaged in the incident. No other damage to the aircraft or to third-party property was reported.
Outcome
Both the instructor and the student were uninjured. The Swiss Accident Investigation Service (SESA) issued a summary report based on available statements, noting that the report serves informational purposes only and did not constitute a full investigation.