Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Sullivan, MO — 2026-01-29

Final reportCEN26LA101
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Date
2026-01-29
Location
Sullivan, MO, USA
Airport
UUV
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N916VK
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from powerlines during low-level operations.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated while conducting a wildlife survey the helicopter contacted and severed a powerline which resulted in the separation of the main rotor system at the rotor mast. The fuselage and tail boom came to rest inverted and submerged in a river. The pilot stated there were no issues with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operations.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents2

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