Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near East Wenatchee, WA — 2012-06-12

Final reportWPR12LA259
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Date
2012-06-12
Location
East Wenatchee, WA, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N282MC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
1
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to adequately monitor the environment and maintain clearance from the power lines while maneuvering at low altitude.

NTSB narrative

The pilot was maneuvering the helicopter at low altitude to conduct a cherry-drying operation. A witness in the local area reported that the helicopter was flying near power lines when it made a steep left turn. The main rotor subsequently impacted the power lines, and the helicopter descended into a tree. The pilot sustained serious injuries and did not recall the accident sequence. He did recall that the helicopter had no mechanical issues before liftoff or during transition to forward flight. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have declined passenger flight to avoid distraction and risk.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 8 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents8

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