Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA near Louise, TX — 2023-06-18

Final reportCEN23LA245
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Date
2023-06-18
Location
Louise, TX, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER R22 BETA
Registration
N932SH
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, it was a windy day and also his first day performing aerial spray operations. While attempting to turn the helicopter from a west to east heading at about 10 feet off the ground, the pilot reported he lost directional control and the helicopter started to spin clockwise. His efforts to maintain control were not successful. He stated that the wind was beating him up, and most of his flight training did not include windy/gusty conditions. The helicopter impacted a rice field, which resulted in damage to the tail boom and rotor blades. The pilot reported there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures 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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