farm field in Priekules pagasts. 56,3879980, 21,6177091
Destination airport:
Investigating agency:
TAIIB
Confidence Rating:
Accident investigation report completed and information captured
Narrative: The Robinson R44 Raven I helicopter crashed during the European Rally Championship in Latvia.
Shortly after take-off the helicopter collided with the electric power line, became uncontrolled and hit the ground. As a result the helicopter sustained substantial damage. One person was killed and three were injured in accident. Two from injured persons have sustained miscellaneous injuries.
Direct cause of aviation accident Collision of helicopter with the electric power line.
Aviation accident root cause Disregarding of international standards and safety notice in the Pilot’s operation handbook.
Aviation accident contributing cause Probably, passengers on board distracted the pilots attention, as a result of it the pilot did not noticed in due time the electric power line in good visibility conditions.
Main cause of aviation accident Underestimation of obstacle placement within the flight area.