Executive summary
On Thursday 9 November 2006, ZK-HUC, a Robinson R44 helicopter carrying 3 police officers and the pilot, collided with an electricity transmission line during a coastal search. The helicopter incurred minor damage and the pilot landed immediately. He subsequently twice shifted the helicopter to avoid sea damage and to facilitate recovery of the helicopter. The pilot received a serious injury but none of the passengers were injured.
The flight was a permissible low level operation conducted at an appropriate speed and height, but the pilot had not clearly briefed his passengers on the possible hazards at low level, nor had he conducted any form of reconnaissance prior to the low level part of the flight.
Related Recommendations
Facilitate making information about the electricity network infrastructure available to pilots to aid their situational awareness, and to publicise the details of any agreed service.
remind operators of commercial transport operations that passengers may require additional briefing or training in safety and emergency procedures appropriate to an intended flight so that they can actively assist in the safe conduct of the flight.
Remind pilots of their responsibility after an aircraft accident to preserve the accident scene, to have the continued airworthiness of the aircraft assessed, and to notify the Director of any change in their medical condition.