Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Palmer, AK — 2025-06-30

Final reportANC25LA064
Sign in to save
Date
2025-06-30
Location
Palmer, AK, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N531AT
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s diverted attention during takeoff in flat light conditions, which resulted in a loss of visual reference with terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that she was departing from an area of mountainous, snow-covered terrain with flat light conditions. She said that after takeoff, while in a high hover, she made a left pedal turn on departure to avoid obstacles and other parked helicopters. As the helicopter was turning, an advisory light illuminated on the instrument panel. She focused her attention inside on the light and when she looked back outside everything appeared white and she lost all visual reference with the terrain. Subsequently the helicopter impacted the snow-covered terrain and rolled over to the left. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom and fuselage. The operator reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

Related mishaps