Pilot Debrief

Robinson R66 near Cordova, AK — 2018-06-19

Final reportGAA18CA366
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Date
2018-06-19
Location
Cordova, AK, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R66
Registration
N7040P
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for landing, which resulted in impact with brush and a loss of helicopter control.

NTSB narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that, after multiple attempts to find a suitable landing site on a mountain ridgetop, the tail rotor impacted brush during landing. The helicopter pivoted, the main rotor contacted a communications tower, and the helicopter then rotated 180° and rolled onto its left side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the windscreen and main rotor mast. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter 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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