These findings are outlined in a report produced by CASA analysing Robinson R22 and R44 helicopter occurrences over a 6-year period in an effort to identify any concerning trends or common causes.
The Robinson R22 helicopter is the most common rotary-wing type on the Australian VH aircraft register, accounting for 26% of all rotary-wing registrations. The Robinson R44 follows closely behind at 24%. As of December 2022, there were 684 registered Robinson R22s in Australia and 621 registered Robinson R44s.
‘Occurrences’ range from collision with terrain and engine failure through to precautionary landings, runway incursions and bird strikes.
Drawing on data from the Australian civil aircraft register, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau and the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research (BITRE), the report found the occurrence rate was proportionate to the large numbers of these helicopters operating in Australia.
In the 6-year period examined by the report, there were 167 reported occurrences for Robinson R22 helicopters and 245 reported occurrences for Robinson R22s.
While the majority (60%) of Robinson R22 accidents or incidents occurred during either aerial work or instructional flying activity, the causes of these events varied. The same was true of Robinson R44 events.
Across the 6-year period, no obvious trends were identified in the kind of incidents and accidents that were reported. There was also no evidence of an increasing incident or accident rate involving these types of helicopters.
Read the report now:
