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NTSB Report
May 10, 2009 · Bolton Ricky D Rotorway E · N602DB
Brookeland, TX
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
May 10, 2009
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Brookeland, TX
Aircraft
Bolton Ricky D Rotorway E
Tail Number
N602DB
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN09CA290
The private pilot reported that while hovering prior to takeoff from his private property, a gust of wind blew the experimental helicopter sideways. The right skid caught the ground and the pilot then pulled on the collective, "a little too hard." The helicopter tail rotor then hit a tractor and the left skid hit the ground. The helicopter rolled coming to rest on its left side. The pilot was not injured. The winds at a local airport 15 miles to the north were reported to be from 170 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 17 knots.
NTSB Probable Cause
Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-(general)-Not attained/maintained - C
Full Narrative
The private pilot reported that while hovering prior to takeoff from his private property, a gust of wind blew the experimental helicopter sideways. The right skid caught the ground and the pilot then pulled on the collective, "a little too hard." The helicopter tail rotor then hit a tractor and the left skid hit the ground. The helicopter rolled coming to rest on its left side. The pilot was not injured. The winds at a local airport 15 miles to the north were reported to be from 170 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 17 knots.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time15:00 CDT
Nearest AirportPrivate Property (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledUnknown
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftBolton Ricky D Rotorway E
Tail NumberN602DB
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsAma/Expr · RI 600N · Reciprocating · 147
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 60 · First Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind170° @ 12 kt, gusting 17 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 5500 ft
Altimeter30.01 inHg
Observation Time20:05
Weather SourceWFAC