Robinson R44 crash near Ayers Rock, Australia

On January 17, 2018, at 1800 local time, a Robinson R44 helicopter, VH-HGX, experienced a partial loss of engine power shortly after takeoff. The pilot subsequently initiated an autorotation, landed hard and rolled over near Ayres Rock, Australia. The pilot and one passenger were seriously injured. Two passengers received minor injuries. The helicopter was substantially damaged. The helicopter was being operated under the pertinent civil regulations for the government of Australia. The investigation is under the jurisdiction of the Government of Australia. This report is for information purposes only and contains only information released by the Government of Australia. Further information pertaining to this accident may be obtained from: Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) P.O. Box 967, Civic Square Canberra A.C.T. 2608 Australia Tel: +612 6274 6054 Fax: +612 6274 6434 www.atsb.gov.au