Friday 18 March 2011

Cessnock chopper crash investigation finds crucial bolt missing

An investigation into last month's fatal helicopter crash in the Hunter Valley has revealed a bolt securing part of the flight control system was missing, causing the pilot to lose control.

52-year-old flying instructor, Ivor Durham and 21-year-old passenger, Sam Bateman died when the Robinson R44 helicopter crashed at Cessnock Aerodrome on February 4.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau's preliminary report into the accident says the 42-year-old pilot, who survived, was undergoing a biennial Helicopter Flight Review.

ATSB General Manager of Aviation Safety Investigations, Ian Sangston says prior to the crash the pilot was carrying out a simulated failure of the helicopter's flight control hydraulic-boost system.

Mr Sangston says the system could not be re-engaged.

"We did find that there was a bolt missing on the hydraulic servo and so we've put a Safety Advisory Notice."

The Bureau is urging operators of Robinson R44 helicopters to inspect the aircraft's hydraulics.

"Suggesting that operators and maintenance organisations might inspect the security of their hydraulic-boost servos."

The pilot and the instructor lost control, causing the chopper to collide with the runway and burst into flames.

It is expected a full report will be released early next yearBy

Monika Jain



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