| Occurrence Briefs are concise reports that detail the facts surrounding a transport safety occurrence, as received in the initial notification and any follow-up enquiries. They provide an opportunity to share safety messages in the absence of an investigation. Because occurrence briefs are not investigations under the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003, the information in them is de-identified. |
What happened
On 29 December 2024 at approximately 1350 local time, a Robinson R22 helicopter was being flown on a dual training flight from Bankstown Airport, New South Wales. On board the helicopter were an instructor and student pilot.
While returning to Bankstown with the student pilot flying, and shortly after reporting their position (approximately 6 km to the north of the airport) to air traffic control (ATC), the instructor observed the rotor clutch warning light illuminate and remain on for more than 10 seconds. There were no other indications of a problem with the helicopter.
The Robinson R22 pilot's operating handbook (POH) emergency procedures stated:
The clutch light may come on momentarily during run-up or during flight to retension belts as they warm-up and stretch slightly. This is normal. If, however, the light flickers or comes on in flight and does not go out within 10 seconds, pull CLUTCH circuit breaker and land as soon as practical. Reduce power and land immediately if there are other indications of drive system failure (be prepared to enter autorotation). Have drive system inspected for a possible malfunction.
Accordingly, the instructor took over and pulled the clutch circuit breaker. The instructor contacted ATC requesting a landing on the grass on the western side of Bankstown Airport. The controller responded and asked if emergency services were needed. The instructor replied that emergency services were not required and reiterated the need to expedite landing on the western grass due to a clutch warning light. The controller approved the request and asked the instructor to notify them when on the ground.
After completing the approach and terminating into a low hover over the western grass, the instructor contacted ATC to notify when ‘on the ground’. As there was still no other indication of a drive system issue, the instructor then hover taxied from the grass to a helipad. This was completed without incident.
On inspection of the helicopter, the instructor found the clutch was inoperative. The helicopter was removed from service for repair.
Following the event, the instructor conducted a thorough debrief with the student, reviewing the POH emergency procedures and actions taken.
Safety message
This incident highlights the critical importance of being familiar with, and following, the emergency procedures prescribed by the aircraft manufacturer. These procedures are developed through extensive testing and operational experience to provide pilots with the best guidance to manage challenging situations. Adhering to these procedures helps ensure the safety of the aircraft and its occupants.
In this case, the instructor’s prompt and correct application of the emergency procedure was a key factor in the safe management of the clutch failure and prevented possible further escalation of the situation.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.