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The ATSB says it has found no pre-impact mechanical defects in a Robinson R44 that crashed in rural NSW late last year.
VH-XIX was conducting aerial spraying of herbicides near Boorowa, 50km east of Young Airport, on 4 December when radio contact with the pilot was lost 15 minutes after its 10th spraying run, the ATSB said in its preliminary report.
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The wreck of the helicopter was found in a nearby gully south of the spraying area, with the pilot succumbing to serious injuries soon after.
“ATSB examination of the site identified a tree with broken branches prior to the first items in the debris trail, which included the helicopter’s stabiliser assembly and right side spray boom,” said ATSB director of transport safety Kerri Hughes.
“There were two ground scars, consistent with landing gear skids, with the majority of the wreckage coming to rest in a gully.
“As the investigation progresses, ATSB investigators will review and examine witness accounts, recorded data, the wreckage, helicopter documentation, operational records, as well as the pilot’s medical records, qualifications and experience.”
According to the ATSB, its investigations have found:
- no evidence of pre-impact defects with the flight controls or structure
- approximately 55 L of low-lead aviation fuel in the fuel system, which was visibly clear of contaminants and tested negative to the presence of water
- the engine was able to be rotated, contained oil and there were no obvious defects upon external examination
- the fuel gascolator, engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and intake air filters were clear of particles
- the air intake hose had no signs of collapse, delamination or restriction
- the main and tail rotor gearboxes contained oil, with no metal contamination on the respective chip detectors
“The pilot had 1,035 hours total aeronautical experience, of which 637 hours were on the R44 type. Most of the pilot’s recent flying had been on the R44,” the ATSB said.
“The pilot also held a gas turbine design feature endorsement, and numerous piston and turbine type ratings. In addition, the pilot held aerial application, low-level, and sling operational ratings.
“The pilot had spent approximately 3 years flying agricultural helicopters in New Zealand where they also obtained a mountain flying operational rating.
“The pilot held a valid class 1 aviation medical certificate and was reported as appearing well rested and fully alert for the flight.”
The ATSB will release a final report when its investigations are complete, but will immediately notify relevant parties if it identifies any critical safety issues during the process.
