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NTSB Report
July 23, 2011 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N915BW
Broomfield, CO
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
July 23, 2011
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Broomfield, CO
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail Number
N915BW
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN11CA511
According to the pilot, the right door opened during takeoff; he lost control of the helicopter while attempting to secure the door. The helicopter impacted the ramp, the skids separated, and the firewall and tail rotor sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident. He stated that, prior to departure, he checked the security of the door with elbow pressure but postulated that the securing pin was not fully engaged.
NTSB Probable Cause
A loss of control due to the pilot's diverted attention as a result of an open door.
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, the takeoff was normal and as the helicopter accelerated forward, the right door of the helicopter came open. The pilot, who was seated in the right seat, reacted by attempting to secure the door and subsequently lost control of the helicopter. The helicopter impacted the ramp. During the impact, the left skid separated, the right skid was crushed up and bent out, and the firewall and tailrotor were bent. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident. He did state that he had checked the security of the door with elbow pressure prior to departure but postulated that the securing pin was not fully engaged.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:20 MDT
Nearest AirportRocky Mountain Metropolitan Ai (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN915BW
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 59 · Second Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind70° @ 7 kt
Visibility50 sm
CeilingBroken clouds 15000 ft
Temperature / Dew Point30 C
Altimeter30.11 inHg
Observation Time17:45
Weather SourceWFAC