Pilot Debrief

Robinson R22 near Seymour, TX — 2020-04-06

Final reportCEN20CA144
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Date
2020-04-06
Location
Seymour, TX, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R22
Registration
N7007X
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a tree while maneuvering at low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was herding cattle when the helicopter's tail rotor struck a tree branch. The helicopter began to yaw right and fully rotated twice as the pilot maneuvered toward open terrain. The pilot lowered the collective and rolled the throttle off to arrest the rotation. The helicopter stopped rotating and then landed hard. The tail rotor and empennage sustained substantial damage. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the helicopter reported that he found no preimpact mechanical malfunctions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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