Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 near Sonora, TX — 2018-04-18

Final reportGAA18CA247
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Date
2018-04-18
Location
Sonora, TX, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44
Registration
N4487D
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at a low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, while he was spotting deer, the helicopter hit a treetop, damaging the tail rotor. The helicopter began to spin, and the pilot closed the throttle. He landed the helicopter, and it then rolled onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot's recommendation was to fly at a higher and safer altitude.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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