ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Weston, FL — 2011-03-05

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude and physical alertness which resulted in an in-flight collision with the water. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's fatigue.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he was on a cross country flight at 1,000 feet mean sea level. About 1 hour 25 minutes into the flight, he recalled the sound of water hitting the helicopter and the next thing he remembered was after the impact. He further reported there was no mechanical failure or malfunction with the helicopter, and the cause of the crash was due to fatigue. The pilot stated that he had three days of restless sleep and no appetite prior to the accident due to stress.

NTSB coding

• Miscellaneous/other · Enroute-cruise

Evidence available

• Photos
• 6 docket documents

Docket documents6

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Record of FAA Interviewinterview
• Record of NTSB Conversationother
• Photo 1: Digital Photograph Provided by FAA. View of the Wrewckage at the Accident Site.photos
• Helicopter Report Supplementreport
• Weather Reports and Recordsreport

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