Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Ciales, PR — 2013-03-02

Final reportERA13LA152
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Date
2013-03-02
Location
Ciales, PR, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N834RC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A loss of main rotor rpm for reasons that could not be determined because an examination of the helicopter’s engine and associated components did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the helicopter was in cruise flight about 700 feet above ground level when he perceived a loss of rotor rpm and entered autorotation. During the descent, the helicopter turned 180 degrees, struck power lines, and collided with terrain. A postcrash fire consumed a significant portion of the helicopter. A detailed examination of the remaining portions of the helicopter, its engine, and associated components revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have initiated a precautionary landing before rotor RPM loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents11

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