Pilot Debrief

ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II near Forest City, SD — 2015-07-02

Final reportGAA15CA196
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Date
2015-07-02
Location
Forest City, SD, USA
Aircraft
ROBINSON HELICOPTER COMPANY R44 II
Registration
N824DK
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to monitor the flight environment for adequate terrain/obstacle clearance during takeoff, which resulted in the inflight collision with power transmission line wires.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that after he dropped his passenger off on a road, he departed to the east in smoky and hazy conditions. Shortly after takeoff, the helicopter impacted power transmission line wires that ran across the road. The helicopter then impacted the ground and skidded to a stop. The pilot reported there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotors, upper arm, and fork assembly.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents3

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