Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 II near Skwentna, AK — 2023-05-09

Final reportANC23LA032
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Date
2023-05-09
Location
Skwentna, AK, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44 II
Registration
N704T
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from terrain while maneuvering in adverse weather conditions, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, he was flying uphill over an area of snow-covered, mountainous terrain, when he encountered flat light and whiteout conditions, which made it difficult to discern topographical features. In an attempt to maintain visual reference with the ground, he turned the helicopter to the right to fly back down the hill. Subsequently, the right landing gear skid contacted terrain and the helicopter entered a dynamic rollover to the right, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, tail boom, and powertrain system. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies 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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