Wire strike — Robinson R44, pastoral station NT

Summary

A Robinson R66 conducting mustering operations at a pastoral station near Katherine struck an unmarked fencing wire at low level, severing the wire and causing damage to the main rotor blade tip. The pilot landed the aircraft without further incident. Post-flight inspection revealed blade tip abrasion and leading edge deformation.

Investigation Findings (4)

1. 01Investigation is ongoing.
2. 02The wire formed part of a new fence line installed since the operator's last aerial survey of the property.
3. 03Preliminary findings indicate the wire was not marked with warning devices as required under the relevant pastoral lease conditions.
4. 04CASA issued a safety advisory to aerial mustering operators on verification of obstacle information before operations.