ROBINSON HELICOPTER R44
Sonora, TX — April 18, 2018
Event Information
| Date | April 18, 2018 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA18CA247 |
| Event ID | 20180424X83850 |
| Location | Sonora, TX |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 30.21167, -100.47750 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | ROBINSON HELICOPTER |
| Model | R44 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from trees while maneuvering at a low altitude.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, while spotting deer, the helicopter hit the top of a tree damaging the tail rotor. The helicopter began to spin, and the pilot closed the throttle. The helicopter landed and rolled onto its left side.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tail boom and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot's recommendation was to fly at a higher and safer altitude.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.