Pilot Debrief

Robinson R-22 near Meraux, LA — 2008-03-04

Final reportDFW08CA075
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Date
2008-03-04
Location
Meraux, LA, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R-22
Registration
N120KC
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure calculate weight and balance prior to flight. A contributing factor was the prevailing gusty winds.

NTSB narrative

The commercial pilot attempted to take-off with a passenger on a personal flight. As the helicopter lifted to a two foot hover the helicopter experienced a low rotor warning. The helicopter turned slowly 90 degrees to the north and then subsequently turned 720 degrees rapidly. During the attempted landing, the helicopter bounced, impacted terrain, and rolled over. The pilot and passenger were uninjured. The combined weight of the pilot, passenger, and fuel on-board exceeded the maximum takeoff gross weight. In addition, winds in the vicinity of the accident site were from 280 degrees at 13 knots gusting to 19 knots.

NTSB coding

View NTSB final report

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