Robinson R44, G-SYTN, 8 May 2005

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

• Category: General aviation - rotorcraft
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 8 May 2005
• Aircraft type: Robinson R44
• Location: Swansea Airport, West Glamorgan
• Registration: G-SYTN

Robinson R44, G-SYTN

Summary:

While hover taxiing the helicopter in a moderate tailwind towards the apron at Swansea airport, the pilot initiated a right turn which developed into an uncommanded and uncontrollable yaw to the right. The pilot was unable to regain control of the helicopter before it hit the ground and came to rest on its left side, with substantial damage to the tail and rotors. There was no fire. The pilot was able to vacate the aircraft unaided and assist the two passengers, who exited the aircraft without major injury. In the absence of evidence of a pre-existing mechanical fault, the investigation determined that the most likely cause of the accident was a loss of tail rotor effectiveness while hover taxiing at low speed with a tailwind.

Download report:

G-SYTN-11-05.pdf (211.50 kb)

Published 10 December 2014