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NTSB Report
December 15, 2016 · Robinson Helicopter R44 Undesignat · N835AK
Separ, NM
Overview
Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
December 15, 2016
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Separ, NM
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 Undesignat (2002)
Tail Number
N835AK
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA17CA095
The helicopter pilot reported that, during approach to land at a trading post, he circled the landing area multiple times to search for obstructions. He further reported that, while on final about 20 to 25 ft above the ground, he noticed multiple electrical wires in front of the helicopter. He lowered the collective to avoid the wires, and the helicopter landed hard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s abrupt maneuver to avoid electrical wires during the approach, which resulted in a hard landing.
Full Narrative
The helicopter pilot reported that during approach to land at a trading post, he circled the landing area multiple times to search for obstructions. He further reported that while on final at about 20-25 feet above the ground he noticed multiple electrical wires in front of the helicopter. He lowered the collective to avoid the wires and the helicopter landed hard. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the tailboom. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:30 MST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 Undesignat
Tail NumberN835AK
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · O-540-F1B5 · Reciprocating · 225
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 47 · Third Class · None
Crew 2Age 24 · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind210° @ 5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point57 / 34 C
Altimeter30.20 inHg
Observation Time16:53
Weather SourceWFAC