AAIB investigation to Robinson R44 Astro, G-BZGO

Birdstrike resulted in broken windscreen, approx 8 miles north of Manchester Barton Airport, 13 June 2016.

From:: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
Published: 10 November 2016

Category:: General aviation - rotorcraft
Report type:: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
Date of occurrence:: 13 June 2016
Aircraft type:: Robinson R44 Astro
Location:: Approx 8 miles north of Manchester Barton Airport
Registration:: G-BZGO

Summary:

While flying at approximately 1,500 ft and 90 kt the helicopter struck a bird, which broke the left windscreen and entered the cockpit. 皇冠体育app crew declared a MAYDAY, but were uninjured and made a successful landing.

皇冠体育app Robinson R44 windscreen is not designed to withstand birdstrikes and the design requirements do not require it to do so. 皇冠体育app United States (US) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is reviewing birdstrike protection requirements for Normal category rotorcraft.

皇冠体育app