Pilot Debrief

Robinson R44 near Marfa, TX — 2020-02-14

Final reportCEN20CA085
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Date
2020-02-14
Location
Marfa, TX, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R44
Registration
N441KA
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a fence during low-altitude maneuvering.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was flying the helicopter parallel to a 10-ft-tall fence while herding cows into a livestock pen. While maneuvering, the tail rotor struck the fence, and the helicopter spun multiple times. The helicopter ascended about 10 ft, and the pilot retarded the throttle and lowered the collective to the full-down position to minimize the rapid right spin. The helicopter impacted the ground and came to rest upright. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor drive system and tailboom.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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