Robinson R44
Cypress Island, WA — August 21, 2019
Event Information
| Date | August 21, 2019 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | GAA19CA509 |
| Event ID | 20190821X01127 |
| Location | Cypress Island, WA |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 48.60833, -122.71611 |
| Highest Injury | SERS |
Aircraft
| Make | Robinson |
| Model | R44 |
| Category | HELI |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 1 |
| Minor | 2 |
| None | 0 |
| Total Injured | 3 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from a tree while maneuvering at a low altitude.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that he began a right orbit off the shore of an island, about 20 ft above the water. During the maneuver, the helicopter drifted and struck a tree leaning over the water. The helicopter subsequently lost altitude and came to rest on its right side after it impacted the water.
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact malfunction or failures that would have precluded normal operations.
The pilot did not submit the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1.
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.