Robinson R22 Beta ZK-HBW, insufficient power available for high-altitude landing, near Slaty Peak Richmond Range Nelson, 23 December 1990
Status
Closed
Occurrence Date
Report Publication Date
Jurisdiction
NZ
Legacy Inquiry Number
90-013T
The pilot was transporting a tramper and his gear to a mountain hut situated at an elevation of about 4750 feet. There was no helipad so he elected to land on a nearby tussock covered saddle. In the final stages of a shallow approach the pilot realised that main rotor rpm had decayed. Full throttle failed to restore rpm, and as the pilot considered he was committed to land, he increased collective but was unable to prevent a heavy touchdown. The helicopter pitched nosedown and fell on to its right side. Neither occupant was injured.
Location
near Slaty Peak, Richmond Range, Nelson (-41.485081,173.363378) [may be approximate]