AAIB investigation to MBB-BK 117 D-2 EC145, G-RMAA

Insufficient anti-torque pedal input in variable wind takeoff, Car park close to Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton, 3 May 2018.

Summary:

The pilot of the HEMS helicopter took off from a car park in variable wind conditions. Once airborne the helicopter yawed to the left and the pilot attempted to correct by applying opposite anti-torque pedal, but it continued to rotate. He lowered the collective and as the helicopter landed, its fenestron contacted a low wall on the perimeter of the car park. Most of the pilot’s experience had been on another type of helicopter and he had made inputs consistent with controlling that aircraft, which were insufficient in this instance. The operator has reviewed the circumstances of the accident and has taken two safety actions as a result.

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MBB-BK 117 D-2 EC145, G-RMAA 01-19

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 10 January 2019