Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 near Easton, PA — 2017-07-04

Final reportGAA17CA383
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Date
2017-07-04
Location
Easton, PA, USA
Airport
N43
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44
Registration
N3025J
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s distraction during liftoff due to the tail rotor chip warning light illuminating, which resulted in the helicopter drifting right, the skid touching down, and a dynamic roll-over.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that, during liftoff, the tail rotor chip warning light illuminated "and distracted me for a moment." The helicopter drifted to the right, the right skid contacted the ground, and the helicopter rolled over onto its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail rotor drive shaft, the horizontal stabilizer, and the main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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