Pilot Debrief

RABE RICHARD EXEC 162F near Tuscumbia, AL — 2023-12-16

Final reportERA24LA083
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Date
2023-12-16
Location
Tuscumbia, AL, USA
Aircraft
RABE RICHARD EXEC 162F
Registration
N60932
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the helicopter, which resulted in the right skid contacting the ground and a subsequent rollover.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot was practicing hovering without the supervision of a flight instructor. The pilot reported that the winds were gusty and he estimated the surface winds to be about 10 to 15 mph. The pilot stated he started to drift and attempted to make a turn; during the turn, the pilot realized he was too close to some objects, and he began to panic. The pilot lowered the collective and the back right skid contacted the ground, after which he pulled up on the collective and lost control of the helicopter. Subsequently, the helicopter rolled over into a ditch; the pilot evacuated and a post-accident fire ensued, resulting in substantial damage to the helicopter. 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
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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