This statement provides an update on the ongoing AAIB investigation into an accident involving Rotorway Executive 162F, G-JDHN, near Ledbury, Herefordshire, on 2 April 2021.
The helicopter was in the cruise when the pilot heard a loud “bang”, which caused the aircraft to react in a way that the pilot did not understand. He commenced an autorotation and touched down in a field, but just before the helicopter stopped the left skid caught on uneven ground and the helicopter rolled onto its side. Both occupants vacated the helicopter having suffered minor injuries.
The investigation has identified small defects on the sealing of an exhaust valve which may have led to unburnt fuel igniting in the exhaust system. The final report into the accident is expected to be published in June 2022.