Robinson R22 Beta, G-CBPT, 26 August 2005

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 10 December 2014

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Field investigation
• Date of occurrence: 26 August 2005
• Aircraft type: Robinson R22 Beta
• Location: Near the Prince Consort Buoy, ½ nm off Cowes, Isle of Wight
• Registration: G-CBPT

Robinson R22 Beta, G-CBPT

Summary:

Whilst flying north of Cowes on a private sightseeing flight, the pilot heard a loud bang and found that the helicopter was no longer flying normally. He immediately entered an autorotation and was able to make a controlled touchdown beside the Price Consort buoy, at the entrance to Cowes harbour. He and his passenger were rescued almost immediately. The helicopter sank quickly and was not recovered. The symptoms reported by the pilot were consistent with the failure of one of the two drive belts transmitting power from the engine to the main transmission. One safety recommendation has been made regarding advice to pilots in the event of ditching.

Download report:

Robinson R22 Beta, G-CBPT 04-06.pdf (224.07 kb)

Published 10 December 2014