Pilot Debrief

Robinson R44 near Taunton, MA — 2019-04-02

Final reportGAA19CA195
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Date
2019-04-02
Location
Taunton, MA, USA
Airport
TAN
Aircraft
Robinson R44
Registration
N344R
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to land with a gusting left quartering tailwind and his subsequent attempt to reposition the helicopter and take off, which resulted in a dynamic rollover.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that, after landing the helicopter in an empty parking spot, he realized that the helicopter was oriented with a tailwind. He decided to reposition the helicopter, and shortly after liftoff, he felt a strong wind gust from the left. The helicopter's right skid then impacted the ground, and the helicopter dynamically rolled over. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, tailcone, and horizontal stabilizer. 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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