Executive summary
On Wednesday 22 December 2004, ZK-HHT, a Hughes 369D helicopter was carrying a party of 3 kayakers into the upper reaches of Wanganui River, South Westland. The party’s kayaks and paddles were suspended in a cargo net underneath the helicopter. As the helicopter flew up the river the net swung back and struck the tail rotor, resulting in an immediate loss of tail rotor control.
The pilot regained control by promptly entering autorotation and made a successful, but heavy, forced landing onto the riverbed. An ensuing fire destroyed the helicopter, but all 4 occupants escaped with minor scratches and bruises only.
The accident was caused by the sling load being too light for the speed of the helicopter.
The safety issues identified included:
- benefits of good safety briefings
- flying at a safe height
- effective emergency training
A safety recommendation was made to the operator regarding a training deficiency.
Related Recommendations
Include in the flight training programme for company helicopter pilots, slign load re-currency training as part their annual proficiency training programme.