Investigation number
199003083
Occurrence date
Location
Charters Towers
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Wirestrike
Occurrence category
Accident
Highest injury level
Serious
When nearing its destination after a flight of about three hours, the helicopter struck a set of power lines, eight metres above ground level, spanning a ridge line. Witnesses described flight path as "quite low and fast" compared to other helicopters they had observed approaching the Airport. Examination of the wreckage revealed wire strike damage to the upper surface of one blade, suggesting that the helicopter was in powered forward flight when it contacted the wires. A test run of the engine found it to be capable of normal operation.
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R22
Registration
VH-IOT
Serial number
740
Operation type
Private
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Strathpark (120 km N Richmond) QLD
Departure time
1430 Approx.
Destination
Charters Towers QLD
Damage
Substantial