Robinson R66 RA-1588G 28.06.2014

     The accident involving Robinson R66 RA-1588G single-built private helicopter occurred in the Krasnodar Territory (RF) on June 28, 2014. According to the available information, the pilot and 3 passengers on board were killed.
     The Interstate Aviation Committee has formed an Investigation team of the accident in accordance with the Russian Aviation Legislation. The Investigation team has started its work.
     

     The Interstate Aviation Committee Investigation team has completed the investigation of the accident involving R-66 RA-1588G helicopter owned by Tehnodrom, Ltd occurred in the Krasnodar Territory (RF) on June 28, 2014.
      Most probably, the fatal accident involving helicopter R-66 RA-1588G was caused by the PIC's aggressive maneuver (inadequate pilot's operations by the throttle control twist grip) entering clouds (the pilot didn't have clearance for IFR flights) that resulted in aircraft penetration in unusual attitude and below-G conditions, impacts of pitch articulation on the main gear shaft stops - known as "bumping" and helicopter breakup in the air.   
      The contributing factor was pilot's timely indecision to return to the departure aerodrome or landing at the selected ground in the conditions of weather deterioration up to below specified values.
    
The appropriate safety recommendations based on the investigation results were developed.