Hughes 369D, ZK-HHT, tailrotor strike with sling load and emergency landing, Wanganui River, South Westland, 22 December 2004
Status
Closed
Occurrence Date
Report Publication Date
Jurisdiction
NZ
Legacy Inquiry Number
04-009
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.
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.
Location
Wanganui River, South Westland (-43.191160,170.638618) [may be approximate]