AAIB investigation to Robinson R44 Astro, G-BZGO
Birdstrike resulted in broken windscreen, approx 8 miles north of Manchester Barton Airport, 13 June 2016.
Summary:
While flying at approximately 1,500 ft and 90 kt the helicopter struck a bird, which broke the left windscreen and entered the cockpit. The crew declared a MAYDAY, but were uninjured and made a successful landing.
The Robinson R44 windscreen is not designed to withstand birdstrikes and the design requirements do not require it to do so. The United States (US) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing birdstrike protection requirements for Normal category rotorcraft.
Download report:
Download glossary of abbreviations:
Published 10 November 2016