Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Broomfield, CO — 2011-07-23

Final reportCEN11CA511
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Date
2011-07-23
Location
Broomfield, CO, USA
Airport
KBJC
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N915BW
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

A loss of control due to the pilot's diverted attention as a result of an open door.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, the right door opened during takeoff; he lost control of the helicopter while attempting to secure the door. The helicopter impacted the ramp, the skids separated, and the firewall and tail rotor sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident. He stated that, prior to departure, he checked the security of the door with elbow pressure but postulated that the securing pin was not fully engaged.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

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