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NTSB Report
September 24, 2008 · Robinson R22 BETA II · N926EL
Flagstaff, AZ
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
September 24, 2008
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Flagstaff, AZ
Aircraft
Robinson R22 BETA II
Tail Number
N926EL
Operator
Richard R Snure
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
SEA08CA208
The pilot reported that due to the density altitude and the weight of the helicopter, he could not gain sufficient airspeed during the takeoff to climb. As the helicopter approached a tree line he initiated a left turn to avoid the trees after receiving a "low rotor" rpm warning. The pilot lowered collective and added throttle just before impacting rough, uneven terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. The pilot stated, "…it [the helicopter] was just too heavy and it was too hot, and the terrain was not level for a run on landing." The density altitude at the time of the accident was calculated to be 10,612 feet.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's decision to attempt a takeoff in a high density altitude high gross weight condition that exceeded the takeoff performance capability of the helicopter. The pilot's failure to maintain adequate rotor rpm was also causal. Contributing factors were the high density altitude and the uneven high elevation terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that due to the density altitude and the weight of the helicopter, he could not gain sufficient airspeed during the takeoff to climb. As the helicopter approached a tree line he initiated a left turn to avoid the trees after receiving a "low rotor" rpm warning. The pilot lowered collective and added throttle just before impacting rough, uneven terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the helicopter. The pilot stated, "…it [the helicopter] was just too heavy and it was too hot, and the terrain was not level for a run on landing." The density altitude at the time of the accident was calculated to be 10,612 feet.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time14:30 MST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson R22 BETA II
Tail NumberN926EL
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorRichard R Snure
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-320 · Reciprocating
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 60 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point0 C
Altimeter0
Weather SourcePILO