Pilot Debrief

Robinson R22 near Garwood, TX — 2019-06-29

Final reportCEN19LA193
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Date
2019-06-29
Location
Garwood, TX, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R22
Registration
N7143Y
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilots' failure to maintain clearance from a power line during low level operations.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was performing a crop pollination flight in the helicopter when the helicopter was pushed vertically toward the power lines due to a "gust of air or thermal from the differing vegetation." The main rotor blades impacted the power lines, then the helicopter impacted terrain and came to rest in the field, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided low-level flight near powerlines.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 3 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents3

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