Pilot Debrief

Robinson R22 Beta II near Flagstaff, AZ — 2008-09-24

Final reportSEA08CA208
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Date
2008-09-24
Location
Flagstaff, AZ, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R22 Beta II
Registration
N926EL
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to attempt a takeoff in a high density altitude high gross weight condition that exceeded the takeoff performance capability of the helicopter. The pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm was also causal. Contributing factors were the high density altitude and the uneven high elevation terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that due to the density altitude and the weight of the helicopter, he could not gain sufficient airspeed during the takeoff to climb. As the helicopter approached a tree line he initiated a left turn to avoid the trees after receiving a "low rotor" rpm warning. The pilot lowered collective and added throttle just before impacting rough, uneven terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. The pilot stated, "…it [the helicopter] was just too heavy and it was too hot, and the terrain was not level for a run on landing." The density altitude at the time of the accident was calculated to be 10,612 feet.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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