Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Burlington, WA — 2025-08-18

Final reportWPR25LA262
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Date
2025-08-18
Location
Burlington, WA, USA
Airport
BVS
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N877DR
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to see and avoid the light pole, which resulted in a collision with the light pole and subsequent ground impact.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, prior to departure, while in a 10 ft hover, he maneuvered away from a parked vehicle when the helicopter struck a light pole to the aft and right side of the helicopter. Subsequently, the helicopter descended and impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage. 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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