Investigation number
AO-2012-079
Occurrence date
Location
19 Km from Maryborough Airport
State
Victoria
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation level
Short
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Wirestrike
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

On 12 June 2012, a Robinson Helicopter Company R44 Raven 1, registered VH-HIE (HIE), departed Moorabbin, Victoria with one person on board to conduct a private flight to a property at Moolort, about 23 km east of Maryborough aerodrome, Victoria.

During the flight, the pilot decided to check on the progress of a bore under construction about 2 km west of the intended destination. The pilot landed at the bore site without incident and after only a short time on the ground, decided to depart in the same direction as his approach.

At about 1130 Eastern Standard Time, the helicopter became airborne and as it transitioned from hover to forward flight, the pilot saw a single strand powerline directly ahead. The helicopter hit the powerline and subsequently impacted the ground. The pilot was not injured, however the helicopter was seriously damaged.

The accident highlights the importance of a proper reconnaissance when flying in a wire environment and remaining focused only on operational tasks. The pilot's reaction to the wirestrike, which was to continue to fly the aircraft to the ground, assisted in him being able to land without injury.

Aviation Short Investigation Bulletin - Issue 12

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R44
Registration
VH-HIE
Serial number
1112
Operation type
Private
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Moorabin Airport
Damage
Substantial