Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Tupelo, MS — 2024-02-07

Final reportCEN24LA112
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Date
2024-02-07
Location
Tupelo, MS, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N4054Y
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from water during a dark night landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while attempting to land at his private helipad near a lake at night, he was unable to determine his height above the water. As he prepared to return to the departure airport, the tail rotor contacted the water. The pilot attempted to climb, but the helicopter began an un-commanded yaw to the right. The pilot reduced power and lowered the collective. The helicopter subsequently impacted the water and sustained substantial damage to the main rotor, tail boom, and vertical stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of 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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