Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Prairie Lea, TX — 2015-07-16

Final reportGAA15CA232
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Date
2015-07-16
Location
Prairie Lea, TX, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N804DF
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain rotor rpm, resulting in an uncontrolled descent and collision with trees.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that while flying at a low altitude and low airspeed, over tree-covered terrain, he made a steep left turn downwind, and the low rotor rpm horn sounded. He stated that he lowered the collective slightly and rolled on throttle, but the helicopter descended and impacted trees and terrain. The pilot reported that he completed a damage assessment and flew the helicopter to his home airport without further incident. Substantial damage was sustained to the helicopter left aft fuselage frame assembly.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Avoiding steep left turn downwind at low altitude and airspeed.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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