Pilot Debrief

Robinson R44 near Kaneohe, HI — 2018-10-23

Final reportWPR19LA013
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Date
2018-10-23
Location
Kaneohe, HI, USA
Airport
PHNG
Aircraft
Robinson R44
Registration
N4132H
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

The pilot’s sudden incapacitation from an undiagnosed heart condition during flight, which resulted in a hard landing.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the helicopter briefly lost consciousness during the air tour flight and began preparing for a precautionary landing. Shortly thereafter, he lost consciousness again and was awakened by first responders following the accident. The pilot and both passengers sustained serious injuries, and the helicopter was substantially damaged. Following a mitral valve replacement about 6 years before the accident, the pilot had been required to provide periodic cardiovascular evaluations to the Federal Aviation Administration to maintain his medical certification, and his cardiologist reported that his valve was in good condition and had placed no restrictions on his activities. During the hospital stay following the accident, the pilot experienced complete heart block, which required the placement of a permanent pacemaker. Therefore, it is likely that, during the flight, the pilot experienced a sudden incapacitation from an undiagnosed heart condition. Based on the medical findings, the pilot’s sudden incapacitation from complete heart block would not have been predicted.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Human factors
First missed decision gate
Pilot should have recognized medical issues before the flight.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Video
  • Photos
  • 6 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents6

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