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NTSB Report
October 18, 2020 · Robinson Helicopter R44 II · N31136
Washington, WI
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
October 18, 2020
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (1 uninjured)
Location
Washington, WI
Aircraft
Robinson Helicopter R44 II (2020)
Tail Number
N31136
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
CEN21LA021
The pilot reported that while moving over a slight incline at a hover in preparation for the takeoff, a gust of wind caused the helicopter to weathervane, inadvertently contact the ground, and initiate a rolling motion. Although the proper response was to lower the collective in this situation, the pilot’s immediate reaction was to increase the collective, which exacerbated the dynamic rollover sequence. The helicopter continued the rolling motion and came to rest on its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, the fuselage, and the tail rotor system. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain lateral control during a hover and improper recovery action after the helicopter contacted the ground, which resulted in a dynamic rollover sequence and an impact with terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that while moving over a slight incline at a hover in preparation for the takeoff, a gust of wind caused the helicopter to weathervane, inadvertently contact the ground, and initiate a rolling motion. Although the proper response was to lower the collective in this situation, the pilot’s immediate reaction was to increase the collective, which exacerbated the dynamic rollover sequence. The helicopter continued the rolling motion and came to rest on its right side. The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the main rotor system, the fuselage, and the tail rotor system. The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time14:00 CDT
Nearest AirportWashington Island Airport (0nm)
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftRobinson Helicopter R44 II
Tail NumberN31136
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsLycoming Engines · HIO-540 · Reciprocating · 245
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (1 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured1
Total1
Crew 1Age 66 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind290° @ 9 kt, gusting 14 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point42 C / 28 C
Altimeter30.07 inHg
Observation Time13:55
Weather SourceWFAC