Robinson R-22

Riverside, CA — January 8, 2008

Event Information

DateJanuary 8, 2008
Event TypeACC
NTSB NumberSEA08CA065
Event ID20080204X00131
LocationRiverside, CA
CountryUSA
Coordinates33.85500, -117.42861
Highest InjuryNONE

Aircraft

MakeRobinson
ModelR-22
CategoryHELI
FAR Part091
Aircraft DamageSUBS

Conditions

Light ConditionDAYL
WeatherVMC

Injuries

Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
None2
Total Injured0

Event Location

Probable Cause

The pilot's misjudged landing flare and improper use of the collective control.

Full Narrative

The pilot reported while making an approach to a hover about 15 feet above ground level (agl), he applied power to stop the decent rate and the helicopter began to yaw to the right. Despite the pilot adding left anti-torque pedal and increasing power, the helicopter continued to yaw to the right and ascended 50-75 feet. The pilot stated he lowered the collective and reduced power until the helicopter descended through about 25 feet agl, and then he raised the collective for landing. Subsequently, the helicopter landed hard within sandy terrain on the shoreline of a lake. Examination of the helicopter revealed that the tail boom and firewall sustained substantial damage. No mechanical anomalies were noted during the examination.

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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