Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 near Curren, MI — 2011-09-24

Final reportCEN11FA666
Sign in to save
Date
2011-09-24
Location
Curren, MI, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44
Registration
N8324F
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The non-instrument-rated pilot's decision to continue visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into trees and the ground. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's impairment from multiple drugs.

Contributing factors

Contributing to the accident was the pilot's impairment from multiple drugs.

NTSB narrative

The non-instrument-rated pilot and passenger departed on a cross-country trip; there was no record of the pilot obtaining a weather briefing or filing a flight plan. A witness observed and heard the helicopter flying in and out of low clouds and rain near the tops of trees. Shortly thereafter, he heard noises similar to gunfire, consistent with the helicopter impacting trees. The first identifiable tree strikes were about 500 feet from the main wreckage. Data recovered from a portable global positioning system unit did not show the accident flight; however, the data showed a similar route of flight on multiple previous occasions. Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions; the damage was consistent with controlled flight into trees and the ground. Toxicological testing of the pilot revealed the use of multiple drugs that cause sedation, as well as the stimulant cocaine. The multiple sedating medications each have a high likelihood of impairment and their use posed a significant hazard to flight safety.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
VFR into IMC
First missed decision gate
Pilot did not file a flight plan or request a weather briefing before the flight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 18 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents18

Related mishaps