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Aviation safety reports, made easier to study

NTSB Reports is an independent research and search tool for public aviation accident and incident records. It brings NTSB aviation reports, structured fields, docket files, extracted figures, photos, videos, and update history into one searchable interface.

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January 3, 2019 · Robinson R44 II · N4246Z

Grace, ID

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
January 3, 2019
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Grace, ID
Aircraft
Robinson R44 II (2009)
Tail Number
N4246Z
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
GAA19CA110

The helicopter pilot reported that, shortly after liftoff to the north from his property, he saw coyote tracks and "wanted to inspect." To better observe the coyote, he maneuvered at a low altitude, which led him to cross over a power line. After crossing the power line for a third time, he spotted the coyote, turned left, diverted his attention from the power line, continued to turn left, and the main rotor blades struck the power line. He maintained control of the helicopter and landed without further incident. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

Environmental issues-Physical environment-Object/animal/substance-Wire-Effect on equipment

Full Narrative

The helicopter pilot reported that shortly after liftoff to the north from his property, he observed coyote tracks and "wanted to inspect." To better observe the coyote, he maneuvered at a low altitude which led him to cross over a powerline. After crossing the powerline for a third time, he spotted the coyote, turned left, took his attention off the power line, continued to turn left and the main rotor blades struck the powerline. He maintained control of the helicopter and landed without further incident. A post accident examination revealed the helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor blades. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:00 MST
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftRobinson R44 II
Tail NumberN4246Z
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming · IO-540-AE1A5 · Reciprocating
Seats4

People & Injuries

Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 57 · Third Class · None

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind350° @ 4 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point0 C / -6 C
Altimeter30.30 inHg
Observation Time17:15
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data