Pilot Debrief

Robinson R22 near Venice, LA — 2020-07-08

Final reportCEN20LA282
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Date
2020-07-08
Location
Venice, LA, USA
Aircraft
Robinson R22
Registration
N7186K
Category
Helicopter
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Cruise

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined based on available evidence.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the helicopter was conducting an aerial survey about 30 ft above the ground when the engine lost partial power. The pilot performed an autorotation to swampy terrain, and upon landing, the helicopter settled to the left and the main rotor blades impacted the ground. One main rotor blade and the main rotor pitch links sustained substantial damaged. An engine run was conducted after the wreckage was recovered. The engine started and was run at partial power while still installed in the accident helicopter using fuel that remained in the fuel tanks. Both magnetos were checked and operated normally during the engine run. No anomalies were noted with the engine. Weather conditions at the nearest weather reporting station about the time of the accident were not conducive to the development of carburetor icing. The reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined based on the available information.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Engine power loss
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have chosen to land in a safer area before engine power loss.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents4

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