AAIB investigation to Robinson R44 Astro, G-BZGO

Birdstrike resulted in broken windscreen, approx 8 miles north of Manchester Barton Airport, 13 June 2016.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 November 2016

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 13 June 2016
• Aircraft type: Robinson R44 Astro
• Location: Approx 8 miles north of Manchester Barton Airport
• Registration: G-BZGO

Summary:

While flying at approximately 1,500 ft and 90 kt the helicopter struck a bird, which broke the left windscreen and entered the cockpit. The crew declared a MAYDAY, but were uninjured and made a successful landing.

The Robinson R44 windscreen is not designed to withstand birdstrikes and the design requirements do not require it to do so. The United States (US) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing birdstrike protection requirements for Normal category rotorcraft.

Download report:

Robinson R44 Astro, G-BZGO 11-16

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 10 November 2016