Executive summary
The pilot was transporting a tramper and his gear to a mountain hut situated at an elevation of about 4750 feet. There was no helipad so he elected to land on a nearby tussock covered saddle. In the final stages of a shallow approach the pilot realised that main rotor rpm had decayed. Full throttle failed to restore rpm, and as the pilot considered he was committed to land, he increased collective but was unable to prevent a heavy touchdown. The helicopter pitched nosedown and fell on to its right side. Neither occupant was injured.
Related Recommendations
Checks under Regulations 76 should address each of the skills required for particular operations.
Continuation training requirements be stipulated in Operator's Training Manuals.
Review the commercial operations which R22 helicopters are performing emphasising to the owners and operators the need to observe the manufacturer's restrictions, particularly in commercial operations.