Robinson R22

Clearwater, FL — February 19, 2019

Event Information

DateFebruary 19, 2019
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberGAA19CA141
Event ID20190220X73541
LocationClearwater, FL
CountryUSA
Coordinates27.97583, -82.75639
AirportClearwater Air Park
Highest InjuryNONE

Aircraft

MakeRobinson
ModelR22
CategoryHELI
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
None2
Total Injured0

Event Location

Probable Cause

The flight instructor's failure to maintain sufficient altitude over uneven terrain during a hover taxi, which resulted in ground contact and a subsequent dynamic rollover. 

Full Narrative

According to the flight instructor in the skid-equipped helicopter, he was going to demonstrate a maneuver to his airplane rated student.

The instructor reported that he air taxied the helicopter to the departure end of the runway. He then slowed the helicopter down and while turning and hover taxiing over the grass area between the taxiway and the runway, the toe of the right skid contacted the uneven ground. The helicopter pivoted around the toe and rolled onto its side.

The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and rotor systems.

The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

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.

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