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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

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January 2, 2013 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N744RM

Menard, TX

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 2, 2013
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Menard, TX
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail Number
N744RM
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN13CA124

As the helicopter was flying west in the direction of the sun and at 250 feet above ground level, the pilot heard a loud "bang" and observed a black object go by the left side of the helicopter. The object struck the passenger-side windshield. The pilot performed a forced landing to a highway. During the forced landing, both landing skids separated and the helicopter slid to a stop. The lower fuselage was buckled and wrinkled in several locations. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Descent rate-Not specified - C

Full Narrative

The helicopter was flying to the west, into the sun, at 250 feet above ground level. The pilot heard a loud "bang" and observed a black object go by the left side of his helicopter. The passenger side windshield was struck by the object. The pilot performed a forced landing to the highway. During the forced landing, both landing skids separated and the helicopter slid to a stop. The lower fuselage was buckled and wrinkled in several locations. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time17:45 CST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN744RM
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 58 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDusk
Wind7° @ 5 kt
Visibility8 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point45 C / 23 C
Altimeter30.21 inHg
Observation Time23:51
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data