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NTSB Report
February 10, 2014 · Robinson Helicopter R44 · N7040U
Orlando, FL
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
February 10, 2014
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Orlando, FL
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 (2013)
Tail Number
N7040U
Operator
Air Force
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA14CA143
According to the pilot, while conducting a preflight inspection, he overlooked the removal of the tail rotor covers. He started the helicopter and shortly thereafter he heard a "snap", and the helicopter began to "shake". The helicopter was immediately shutdown and a visual inspection revealed substantial damage to the tail rotor drive shaft. The pilot reported no other preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate preflight inspection in which he failed to remove the tail rotor covers, which resulted in the failure of the tail rotor drive shaft during engine start.
Full Narrative
According to the pilot, while conducting a preflight inspection, he overlooked the removal of the tail rotor covers. He started the helicopter and shortly thereafter he heard a "snap", and the helicopter began to "shake". The helicopter was immediately shutdown and a visual inspection revealed substantial damage to the tail rotor drive shaft. The pilot reported no other preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time09:30 EST
Nearest AirportPremium Heliport (0nm N)
RunwayH1
Runway Length31 ft
Runway Width31 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44
Tail NumberN7040U
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorAir Force
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540-F1B5 · Reciprocating · 260
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 30 · First Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind40° @ 3 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point66 F / 52
Altimeter30.14 inHg
Observation Time14:30
Weather SourcePILO