AAIB investigation to Robinson R44 Raven II, G-WTWT

Rolled over during a precautionary landing, Herne Bay, Canterbury, Kent, 26 July 2020.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 12 November 2020

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 26 July 2020
• Aircraft type: Robinson R44 Raven II
• Location: Herne Bay, Canterbury, Kent
• Registration: G-WTWT

Summary:

Shortly after takeoff, the pilot realised that the left front door was not properly closed so decided to make a precautionary landing. During the approach the helicopter developed a high rate of descent which the pilot was not able to arrest. The helicopter stuck the ground and rolled over. Three of the occupants sustained minor injuries.

The investigation found the helicopter had made a downwind approach to land and was likely to have entered a vortex ring state. The pilot was not aware he was making a downwind approach.

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Robinson R44 Raven II, G-WTWT 11-20

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 12 November 2020