Executive summary
The aircraft was in a high hover. It was seen to rotate about its vertical axis and fall into the sea. The co-pilot escaped under water and was rescued but the Pilot lost his life.
Related Recommendations
Design a modification to inhibit the starter switch unless the clutch is disengaged during ground starting.
Review the desirability of incorporating such changes to improve the survivability of accidents which may occur to aircraft with the existing seat design.
They consider having the validity of the suggested changes to the seat design evaluated.
Make available to each qualified helicopter pilot a copy of the article on uncommanded yaw published in Flight Safety in 1985.
Publish an alert bulletin warning all Robinson R22 operators of the potential damage from such an occurrence and requirement an engineer's inspection if an attempt is made to start with the clutch engaged.
Amend the engine starting sequence to include a check that the clutch light is "off" after selecting the master switch on.
Issue a Safety Notice warning pilots of the potential damage resulting from such an occurrence and requiring an engineer's inspection if an attempt is made to start with the clutch engaged.
Develop and submit to the Airworthiness Branch, Air Transport Division, a modification to inhibit the starter switch unless the clutch is disengaged during ground starting.
Require a mandatory inspection of the flexible star plate coupling immediately behind the clutch, to determine whether damage has already occurred.
Incorporate in the helicopter training syllabus for PPL and CPL an item dealing with uncommanded yaw.
Amend the requirements [arising from recommendation 007/92: review the minimum flight times specified for issue of a CPL-H] accordingly.